Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist who co-founded Turning Point USA, was shot at an event in Utah on Wednesday, according to the university where he was speaking.
Videos circulating online showed Kirk recoiling hard following a gunshot at an event at Utah Valley University in Orem.
In a post on X, the school confirmed the shooting.
Kirk’s current condition is unknown.
The 31-year-old activist founded Turning Point USA in 2012, when he was 18 years old. The organization is geared primarily toward promoting conservatism among young people in high schools and universities. It reported $85 million in revenue in 2024.
Over time, it’s become an increasingly important part of the conservative movement and the Republican Party, including by hosting large conferences such as “AmericaFest,” which draw thousands of attendees along with conservative politicians and influencers hoping to speak to a younger conservative audience.
Kirk is also a prominent ally of President Donald Trump, who weighed in on the shooting in a Truth Social post.
“We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot,” Trump said. “A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!”
Kirk was scheduled to be at Utah Valley University as part of an “American Comeback Tour,” according to Turning Point USA’s website.
On Wednesday, Kirk was hosting a “Prove Me Wrong Table,” a format where attendees can debate him on political topics.
The university wrote on X that a suspect was in custody.
FBI Director Kash Patel said that the bureau was “closely monitoring reports” of the shooting. “Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected. Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation,” Patel said.
Elon Musk said on X that the “shot looked real bad, but I sure hope Charlie makes it somehow.”
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
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