Orem, Utah — Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and executive director of Turning Point USA, was shot Wednesday evening while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.
Witnesses say Kirk was about 20 minutes into his presentation when gunfire rang out. According to a university spokesperson, the shots appeared to come from a nearby building. “To the best of our knowledge he was hit and taken with his security team away from the premises, and the courtyard was cleared,” the spokesperson told CNBC.
Panic spread quickly as students and attendees ran for cover. The university confirmed that the area was evacuated and secured, while federal authorities began monitoring the situation. The FBI said agents were dispatched to assist local police and would be closely involved in the investigation.
Director Kash Patel posted on social media that their thoughts were with Kirk, his family, and those affected, adding that the bureau “stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation.”
The 31-year-old political figure’s condition remains unclear, but the news prompted immediate reaction from national leaders.
Vice President JD Vance urged the public to keep Kirk in their prayers, calling him “a genuinely good guy and a young father.”
President Donald Trump echoed the sentiment on Truth Social, writing, “We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!”
No details have been released yet about a possible suspect or motive, and it remains uncertain whether the gunfire came from inside or outside the building. For now, questions about what led to the attack remain unanswered, while Kirk’s supporters wait anxiously for updates on his condition.
This is a developing story.