Charlie Kirk shot dead during speech at Utah university

Charlie Kirk, the American political activist and founder of Turning Point USA, has died after being shot while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University.

The fatal shooting occurred on the evening of 10 September during an open-air forum held on campus as part of Kirk’s “American Comeback Tour”. According to footage verified by BBC Verify, Kirk was answering a question about mass shootings in the United States when a single gunshot was fired. The bullet struck him in the neck.

Eyewitnesses reported panic among those gathered, as members of the audience screamed and fled. Kirk’s wife, Erika, and their children were present at the event, Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullins has confirmed.

US President Donald Trump announced Kirk’s death on social media, posting a statement at 22:49 local time. He wrote:

“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”

Five sources briefed on the incident confirmed Kirk’s death to CBS News, the BBC’s American partner.

Authorities have not yet identified the attacker. A university spokesperson told CBS News that an individual initially taken into custody was later released. No arrests have been made at the time of writing, and no motive has been established for the attack.

Local police have appealed for witnesses and urged the public not to speculate on social media.

In video clips circulating online, Kirk can be seen seated beneath a white gazebo decorated with the slogan of his current tour. Moments before the gunshot, he was engaged in a discussion on gun violence. When asked about the number of mass shootings in the past decade, he began to respond before the fatal shot rang out.

The footage shows him falling back in his seat, visibly wounded.

The identity of the shooter has not yet been established. The motive for the attack is also unknown. Authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing.

Born in 1993, Charlie Kirk emerged as one of the most prominent conservative voices of his generation. He founded Turning Point USA (TPUSA) in 2012 at the age of 18. The student-led organisation grew rapidly, establishing chapters across American campuses with the stated aim of promoting free markets, limited government, and individual liberty.

By his late twenties, Kirk had become a frequent media commentator, podcast host, and author. His influence reached into national politics through close ties with Republican leaders, including President Trump, who often praised him publicly.

Kirk was also known for his speaking tours, drawing large audiences of young conservatives. His “American Comeback Tour”, during which the shooting took place, was the latest in a series of high-profile events designed to rally grassroots support.

He is survived by his wife, Erika, and their children.

Requiescat in pace.

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