Charlie Kirk, the influential right-wing activist and executive director of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), was shot on Wednesday while hosting an event at Utah Valley University, CNN reports.
The incident took place during the "American Comeback Tour" hosted by the TPUSA chapter at the university.
Video footage circulating on social media shows Kirk being struck while speaking and sitting beneath a tent in the university’s courtyard, with students fleeing the area following the sound of a gunshot.
The TPUSA press team confirmed that Kirk had been shot, but his condition remains unknown at this time. Utah Valley University police confirmed the shooting, but additional details have yet to be provided.
In response to the incident, Utah Senator Mike Lee posted on X, expressing his concern: “Tracking the situation at Utah Valley University closely. Please join me in praying for Charlie Kirk and the students gathered there.”
Another Utah Senator, Ashley Moody, also took to X, saying, “My office is monitoring the situation at Utah Valley University. I pray for Charlie Kirk, the students, and this nation.”
Several political figures shared their thoughts and prayers for Kirk. JD Vance, the vice-president, tweeted, “Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father.”
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth echoed this sentiment, writing, “Prayers for Charlie Kirk. An incredible Christian, American, and human being. May the healing hand of Jesus Christ be upon him.”
FBI Director Kash Patel also responded, confirming that the FBI was monitoring the situation: “The FBI is closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting involving Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University … Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the attack, calling it “disgusting, vile, and reprehensible.” He emphasized that “in the United States of America, we must reject political violence in EVERY form.”
The shooting came shortly after Kirk posted on social media, “WE. ARE. SO. BACK. Utah Valley University is FIRED UP and READY for the first stop back on the American Comeback Tour.”
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and more details are expected soon.