Manhunt Ongoing After Charlie Kirk Shot Dead at Utah College

• Charlie Kirk was fatally shot during a targeted attack at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025.
• The Utah DPS and FBI are conducting an ongoing manhunt for the shooter, who remains at large.
• Two initial suspects were released after no link to the shooting was found.
• The attack sparked bipartisan condemnation and tributes from political leaders including Donald Trump.
• Kirk was a prominent conservative youth activist, known for founding Turning Point USA and supporting Trump’s agenda.

Conservative activist and Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was fatally shot on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, during an event at Utah Valley University, Utah authorities confirmed. The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) has declared the search for the shooter an “ongoing manhunt,” amid a tense and fast-moving investigation into what officials have described as a “targeted attack” on the 31-year-old political commentator who was speaking to a large crowd at the time.

Targeted Shooting During ‘Prove Me Wrong’ Event at Utah Valley University

Charlie Kirk was taking part in his organization’s “American Comeback Tour” at Utah Valley University in Orem, where he engaged students in a lively outdoor “Prove Me Wrong” debate—a format he championed to challenge political and cultural views. Mid-discussion, a single gunshot rang out, striking Kirk and sending shockwaves through the crowd. Eyewitness videos captured Kirk recoiling in his chair with visible blood from a neck wound, as panic erupted among attendees.

Law enforcement responding quickly, initially detained two suspects who were later released after no links to the shooting were found. This leaves the shooter still at large, with officials conducting a detailed door-to-door search nearby and reviewing surveillance footage from campus buildings. Authorities suspect the shot came from a rooftop approximately 150 to 200 yards away at the Losee Center, signaling a carefully planned assassination attempt rather than random violence.

Political Reactions and Public Condemnation Following Killing

The tragic killing of Charlie Kirk has drawn heavy reactions nationwide. Former President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social expressing deep sorrow and sympathy for Kirk, whom he called “The Great, and even Legendary” figure who “understood the Heart of the Youth in the United States.” Trump extended condolences to Kirk’s wife, Erika, and family, describing the attack as an assassination and a “dark moment for America”.

Vice President JD Vance and other prominent political leaders across party lines condemned the attack, with many labeling it an act of political violence that must not be tolerated. The Utah Governor Spencer Cox publicly denounced the shooting as a politically motivated assassination, highlighting the growing concerns over violence targeting public and political figures.

Charlie Kirk’s Legacy and Impact on Conservative Youth Activism

Charlie Kirk’s career began early — he co-founded Turning Point USA at age 18, becoming a leading voice in conservative youth activism. Known for vocal support of former President Trump and his movement, Kirk mobilized young voters and sparked national conversations on campuses through debates and social media engagement. His planned “Comeback Tour” was intended to galvanize conservative youth across the country during a pivotal election cycle.

Kirk’s sudden loss has left a void in conservative circles, with supporters mourning his passion and influence in political activism. Kirk is survived by his wife Erika and their two young children.

University Response and Campus Security Measures

Utah Valley University acted promptly, evacuating buildings and coordinating with multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and the Utah DPS. University representatives have condemned the shooting and expressed commitment to student safety while cooperating fully with investigators.

The campus has since held vigils honoring Kirk’s memory, as security has been heightened with increased patrols to reassure students and staff. The university continues to monitor the situation closely, given the ongoing threat posed by the still-at-large shooter.

Ongoing Manhunt and Public Safety Alerts

Search efforts are intensifying with the FBI joining the Utah Department of Public Safety in a statewide manhunt. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. Investigators are examining multiple angles including surveillance videos and witness testimonies to track the assailant’s movements before and after the shooting.

Public officials caution that the suspect was likely prepared and armed to inflict harm, warning communities to remain vigilant as the investigation proceeds. The case underscores rising concerns about politically motivated violence in the United States.

Charlie Kirk and Supporters Before the Incident

In his last moments captured on video, Kirk was engaging an audience member on the topic of rising mass shootings in America, ironically just before he himself became a victim of gun violence. His charismatic presence and willingness to face controversial debates had established him as a magnetic figure in political discourse.

Among the outpouring of tributes, Trump hailed Kirk as a “martyr for truth and freedom,” further amplifying calls to end political hostility and violence towards public figures.

Also Read | Charlie Kirk’s Family: Meet Wife Erika and Their Two Children