OREM, Utah — In a shocking turn of events at Utah Valley University (UVU), right-wing political activist Charlie Kirk was shot to death while hosting an event on campus Wednesday afternoon. The incident has sent ripples of concern through the community and beyond, highlighting growing tensions in political discourse nationwide.
Kirk, 31, known for his conservative viewpoints and activism, was speaking in a debate and answering questions from students at an event organized by his nonprofit political group, Turning Point USA. The event was held under a tent in UVU’s Sorensen Center courtyard, displaying themes like “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong,” reports WTOP.
Details of the UVU Shooting
Around two minutes into the session, a single gunshot was heard, after which Kirk was seen clutching his neck, bleeding profusely. The immediate aftermath was chaotic, with attendees gasping in shock before fleeing the scene, reports the Associated Press.
Initially it was reported that an older man who is not a student was quickly apprehended. However, that person is not the suspect and does not match the suspect’s description.
The suspect was wearing dark clothing, and UVU’s video surveillance system captured footage of the gunman. Those images are currently being analyzed. NBC News is now reporting that another person in custody is a person of interest, and an FBI official said he is confident the person in custody is the shooter.
A UVU spokesperson said in a statement that the gunman shot Kirk from about 200 feet away. Authorities say the shooting was a targeted attack and there was probably only one gunman.
The university was evacuated as a precaution and classes were cancelled.
Online Petition Called for Banning Charlie Kirk’s Campus Visit
The presence of Kirk on campus had already sparked controversy. An online petition calling for the event’s cancellation garnered nearly 1,000 signatures, reflecting the divided opinions on his appearance.
Related Article: Managing Controversial Speakers on College Campuses
UVU officials had previously defended holding the event, citing First Amendment rights and emphasizing its commitment to free speech and intellectual inquiry.
The event’s security measures have come under scrutiny, as UVU did not employ weapons detection equipment for the event, reports NBC News. Kirk did have personal security with him at the time of the shooting.
This shooting at UVU is part of a troubling trend of rising political violence in the United States. Recent incidents include the assassination of a Minnesota state legislator and her husband, the firebombing of a Colorado parade, and an arson attack at the Pennsylvania governor’s residence.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the matter.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
