Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot Wednesday afternoon during a campus event at Utah Valley University (UVU). A spokesperson confirmed, “Charlie Kirk has been shot at Utah Valley University. Condition unknown.”
Footage shows Kirk under a white pop-up tent answering a question about transgender mass shooters when a gunshot rang out. Chaos erupted as attendees screamed and fled. The shot reportedly came from a building about 200 yards away.
Security rushed Kirk from the scene. UVU officials confirmed the incident occurred around 12:20 p.m. and the campus was immediately locked down. Classes were canceled for the rest of the day.
Messages of support poured in. President Donald Trump called for prayers, praising Kirk as “a great guy.” Vice President J.D. Vance and California Governor Gavin Newsom—who called the shooting “disgusting, vile, and reprehensible”—joined a bipartisan chorus condemning the violence.
Law enforcement later confirmed a suspect was taken into custody shortly after the shooting. The motive remains under investigation.
Political figures across the spectrum, including Governors Wes Moore, Josh Shapiro, Gretchen Whitmer, and former Vice President Kamala Harris, stressed that violence must not be tolerated in political discourse.
The attack has reignited national concerns about political violence and event security. Authorities have pledged continued updates as the investigation moves forward.