Charlie Kirk, 31, the political icon and co-founder of Turning Point USA, has reportedly died Wednesday, after being shot in the neck while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. TPUSA confirmed his death, after earlier reports that he may be in stable condition.
President Donald Trump also commented on the shooting in a Truth Social post:
The “Prove Me Wrong” session — part of TPUSA’s “American Comeback Tour” — took place around 12:20 p.m. local time in UVU’s Sorensen Center courtyard, under a white tent emblazoned with slogans “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong.” Witnesses say that a single shot rang out as Kirk addressed the crowd, prompting panic among the audience of hundreds.
UVU police confirmed that shots were fired and that a suspect is at large and that the person in custody is not the shooter. Attorney General Pam Bondi says that ATF and FBI agents are on the scene. Witnesses described the event as hosting about 300 people, mostly supporters of Kirk. They say Kirk was bleeding from the neck before collapsing in his chair. A former congressman, present at the event, confirmed a light security presence and noted that the shot appeared to come from a nearby building.
Kirk had just started speaking when the attack happened. His first comments were regarding religion in which he professed his faith and belief in Jesus Christ and said he was not there to denigrate The Church of Latter Day Saints.
Shaping Young Conservatives
Kirk founded Turning Point USA in 2012 at age 19. He emerged as a major force in shaping young conservative activism. He launched the organization’s multimedia movement to push back against left-leaning institutions on America’s college campuses. The centerpiece of that effort is Kirk himself, debating and answering questions from students for hours at universities across the country.
TPUSA is widely credited with galvanizing the rising tide of conservatism among Gen Z, attracting students to embrace principles like fiscal responsibility, free markets, and limited government. As reported by Carolina Journal, TPUSA’s “You’re Being Brainwashed Tour” brought Kirk to East Carolina University last year, drawing passionate young supporters and marking him as a trailblazing political icon among students.
Join us in prayer for Turning Point USA founder and CEO, Charlie Kirk, who was shot in the neck while holding a student event at Utah Valley University. Police have a suspect in custody. pic.twitter.com/N1GphWnVEE
— NC Faith and Freedom Coalition (@NCFaithFreedom) September 10, 2025
Indeed, broader trends show young voters shifting rightward, thanks in part to the influence of alternative media sources and organizations like TPUSA that challenge traditional narratives.
This shooting is widely being described as political violence. Politicians and public figures across party lines have condemned the attack and called for unity, including North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein.
We can never tolerate or become numb to political violence. Our nation is weaker when people are afraid to share their opinions or disagree. Please join Anna and me in praying for Charlie Kirk’s recovery.
— Governor Josh Stein (@NC_Governor) September 10, 2025
This is a developing story and will be updated with new information.
