OREM, Utah — Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, has died after being shot during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz confirmed.
The shooting occurred during Kirk’s appearance on campus when a single round was fired, striking him as he addressed attendees. Emergency responders provided immediate aid before transporting him to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Confusion surrounded the status of the suspect in the hours following the incident. UVU spokesperson Scott Trotter initially stated, “We can confirm that Mr. Kirk was shot, but we don’t know his condition. The suspect is not in custody. Police are still investigating. Campus is closed for the rest of the day.” His statement came before confirmation of Kirk’s death was made public.
Authorities first detained Michael Mallinson, an older man from Payson, Utah, after videos circulated online showing him being handcuffed at the scene. However, investigators later cleared him of any involvement, confirming that he was not the shooter.
As of Wednesday night, the gunman remains at large. Police have not released the shooter’s name or a possible motive. Local investigators are working alongside federal agencies, including the FBI and ATF, to review surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and process evidence.
The shooting has shaken both the university and the nation. Videos shared on social media captured the moments of chaos as students and attendees scrambled for safety while officers and campus security swarmed the area.
Officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any information that could assist in identifying the suspect.
Leave a Reply