Charlie Kirk Assassinated at Utah University Amidst Political Violence Concerns

Wed Oct 22 2025 01:52:24 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist, was shot and killed at a political event in Utah, igniting nationwide condemnation and raising alarms about escalating political violence in the U.S.

Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot during a campus event at Utah Valley University, an act described by state officials as a political assassination. Witnesses reported chaos as fledgling attendees escaped the scene. Authorities are conducting an extensive investigation as the shooter remains unidentified. Reactions from political leaders across the aisle highlight the rising concern over political violence, echoing similar past incidents, while Trump labels Kirk a 'martyr for truth.'

OREM, Utah (AP) — Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and close ally of former President Donald Trump, was shot and killed at a Utah college event, marking a tragic moment in the escalating climate of political violence across the nation.

Authorities confirmed that Kirk was struck by a single shot fired from a rooftop during a public speaking event held by his group, Turning Point USA. Attendees described the scene as chaotic, with screams erupting as students fled the campus.

This is a dark day for our state. It’s a tragic day for our nation, said Governor Spencer Cox, labeling the incident a political assassination.

Despite two initial detentions, no suspects were connected to the shooting as of the morning following the attack, and a large-scale search for the shooter is ongoing.

In videos shared on social media, Kirk can be seen reaching for his neck after being shot, with blood pouring down as spectators panicked and attempted to escape.

The shooting has drawn swift condemnation from across the political spectrum, as both Democratic and Republican leaders decried the violence. Trump referred to Kirk as a martyr for truth, attributing blame to the radical left rhetoric.

The event, which was part of Kirk's 'The American Comeback Tour,' attracted around 3,000 participants, though his presence was met with protests organized by those opposing Kirk’s views. The university had previously announced it would uphold First Amendment rights to allow his appearance.

The aftermath of the shooting has prompted concerns regarding the increasing incidents of political violence, which include previous attacks on lawmakers and protesters spanning various causes. Kirk's death further emphasizes the urgent discussions about safety and civility in America's political discourse.