Charlie Kirk, the founder of the conservative youth activist organization Turning Point USA, was shot during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, according to law enforcement sources.
A suspect is in custody, according to a school alert.
Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirkwas shot at a Utah Valley University event on Wednesday, according to multiple outlets and a video shared on social media.
The big picture: Police responded to the scene, where there was one single gunshot, UVU spokesperson Scott Trotter told Axios. The shooter was in custody as of Wednesday afternoon.
- Turning Point USA, the White House, Utah Valley University and local police did not immediately respond to Axios’ request for comment.
What they’re saying: “Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father,” Vice President JD Vance said on X.
- “We are closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting involving Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University,” FBI Director Kash Patel said on X. Federal agents will be on the scene, he added.
Context: Kirk’s planned stops at UVU and Utah State University this month as part of his “American Comeback Tour” ignited criticism from some students prior to his arrival.
- A petition to stop his talk at Utah State had gathered nearly 7,000 signatures as of Wednesday.
Go deeper: Charlie Kirk talks Epstein, urges Trump administration to act
