UPDATED  WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 10TH, 2025 6:08PM

A frightening scene unfolded today at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, when conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at a campus event.

The incident happened just after noon during an outdoor Q&A session. Witnesses say a single gunshot rang out, striking Kirk and sending the crowd scrambling for safety. Campus police quickly cleared the area and placed the university on lockdown.

Kirk was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was prounced dead . Authorities confirmed that a suspect has been taken into custody, and federal investigators are assisting local law enforcement.

For those unfamiliar, Charlie Kirk is the founder of Turning Point USA, a national nonprofit organization that hosts events, conferences, and speaking tours aimed at engaging young audiences. Over the past decade, Kirk has become a recognizable voice on the college speaking circuit, often drawing large crowds both in person and online.

Charlie Kirk was 31 years old. He leaves behind a wife and 2 young boys

In the aftermath of today’s shooting, messages of support have poured in from across the country, with many public figures and community leaders offering prayers for Kirk’s family