Charlie Kirk Dead at 31 After Fatal Shooting at Utah University Event

Charlie Kirk | Facebook

Conservative commentator and Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was fatally shot on September 10, 2025, during a live speaking engagement at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. He was 31 years old.

The incident occurred around 1:20 p.m. local time as Kirk addressed attendees as part of his American Comeback Tour. Witnesses reported a single gunshot fired from approximately 200 yards away, striking Kirk in the neck while he spoke beneath a tent in the university courtyard. Chaos erupted as students and attendees fled the scene. Despite immediate medical attention, Kirk succumbed to his injuries shortly after.

Initial reports indicated that a suspect had been taken into custody, but law enforcement later clarified that the individual detained was not believed to be the shooter. As of Wednesday evening, the suspect remained at large, prompting an ongoing investigation involving local authorities, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death in a post on Truth Social, calling him “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk,” and praised his influence on young Americans. “He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me,” Trump wrote. “Melania and my sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you.”

Kirk, who founded Turning Point USA at age 18, rose to national prominence as a leading voice in conservative youth activism. His podcast, The Charlie Kirk Show, consistently ranked among the top political programs in the country. He was a close ally of President Trump and played a key role in mobilizing young voters during the 2024 presidential campaign.

Political leaders from across the spectrum condemned the shooting. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called the incident “horrifying” and emphasized that “political violence has no place in America.” Utah Governor Spencer Cox echoed the sentiment, urging unity and respect for free speech.

Kirk is survived by his wife, Erika Frantzve, a former Miss Arizona USA, and their two young children. Tributes continue to pour in from supporters, colleagues, and public figures, many of whom credit Kirk with reshaping the landscape of youth political engagement.

The investigation remains active, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. Utah Valley University has canceled all campus events until further notice.