America was shaken on Wednesday after prominent political activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at a meeting at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The 31-year-old, a close follower of U.S. President Donald Trump and founder of the conservative youth organisation ‘Turning Point USA’, was addressing students when the attack took place.
Kirk, a vocal critic of H-1B visas and India’s role in US immigration debates, was known for his strong support of Trump and for mobilising young voters in the last presidential election. His widely popular podcast and his outspoken presence in conservative politics had made him a central figure on the American right. Trump, reacting to the news on Truth Social, said he had lost a very dear person, adding that no one has understood the hearts of young people in America better than Charlie.
Authorities confirmed that Kirk was shot while speaking at an event themed ‘American Comeback,’ ironically during a segment in which he was discussing gun violence. Witnesses reported hearing a single shot. Those present later described the horrific moment, recalling how blood began to flow down the left side of his neck as he tried to hold the wound. Students screamed and fled the hall as Kirk collapsed, while the event quickly descended into chaos.
The FBI has opened an investigation into the killing. Director Kash Patel described the incident as “tragic,” while Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed that investigators believe only one individual was involved. “At this time, there is no evidence to suggest multiple attackers,” he stated. Police have taken one person into custody for questioning, though authorities emphasised that he is not currently considered the suspect. Officials have urged anyone with information to come forward.
BREAKING: The shooter was on the roof, dressed in all in black.
You can see him stand up in this video after firing and then run away once he confirmed he had hit Charlie Kirk.
This was planned and meticulously executed. pic.twitter.com/j0vcmYf7Om
— Mike Coudrey (@MichaelCoudrey) September 10, 2025
Former Utah Congressman Jason Chaffetz, who was present at the event, said he heard the shot shortly after an audience member asked a question. “I realised he had been shot when Charlie stepped back,” Chaffetz recounted. “There weren’t multiple shots, just one. The event was poorly secured, with only a minimal police presence.”
Shocking footage of the assassination has since been circulated online, showing the moment the crowd realised the gravity of the situation. Utah Valley University, which has nearly 47,000 students, was immediately placed under lockdown following the shooting. Campus security has been intensified and will remain heightened until the perpetrator is apprehended.
The university had faced criticism in the run-up to the event over its decision to invite Kirk. A petition signed by around 1,000 students and faculty members had called for him to be banned from campus, citing his controversial positions. Despite the protests, the administration allowed the event to proceed.
Charlie Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 alongside William Montgomery when both were just 18 years old. Under his leadership, the organisation grew into one of the most influential conservative youth movements in the United States, playing a crucial role in shaping anti-left political discourse.
His sudden death has left a void in conservative politics and a wave of grief among his supporters. As the investigation continues, America is left reeling from the brazen assassination of one of its most high-profile young political figures.
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