An urgent manhunt is underway after conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was fatally shot during a live event at Utah Valley University (UVU) on Wednesday afternoon.
The 31-year-old was struck in the neck by a single bullet just as he began a Q&A session with students. Chaos erupted as attendees screamed and rushed for cover. Campus security and first responders administered aid before transporting Kirk to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Footage from the event quickly circulated online, showing Kirk collapsing in his chair as blood became visible. The video sparked a wave of shock, outrage, and grief across social media.
Law enforcement officials say the shooter fled the scene immediately. A large-scale manhunt is ongoing, with the FBI and local agencies reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to reconstruct the timeline.
Investigators recovered a high-powered rifle from a wooded area near the campus and believe the shot came from an elevated position, suggesting a premeditated attack.
The shooting has stunned both the university and national political communities. Leaders across the political spectrum condemned the violence, calling it an attack on democratic values.
As calls for justice mount, authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any information. The nation now watches closely, seeking answers about the identity and motive of the attacker.