Charlie Kirk, the founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, has died after being shot during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on September 10, 2025. The shooting occurred around 12:10 p.m. local time when a single shot struck Kirk in the neck. He was immediately transported to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
President Donald Trump reacted on Truth Social, saying: “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!”
Vice President JD Vance, Senator Mike Lee, and other political figures also expressed condolences, while hundreds of supporters took to social media to share memories and pay tribute to Kirk, praising his influence on conservative youth and activism.
The FBI and local law enforcement continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive or identified the suspect.
Kirk’s Turning Point USA organization has played a significant role in mobilizing conservative students, boasting over 250,000 members nationwide. Known for high-energy events featuring strobe lights and pyrotechnics, TPUSA has long been a fixture in campus political engagement.
This incident adds to growing concerns over political violence in the U.S., prompting officials and citizens alike to call for unity and safety at public events.