Conservative activist and Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk died Wednesday after he was shot at an event at Utah Valley University, President Trump confirmed. He was 31 years old.
The suspect is still at large, three sources said. Utah Valley University police said they are going "building to building" to evacuate people.
"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," Mr. Trump wrote on Truth Social. "Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!"
READ ALSO: Conservative activist Charlie Kirk shot during an event in Utah
Kirk was participating in an event at the Orem, Utah, school as part of his organization's "The American Comeback Tour" when he was attacked.
The university said in a statement shared to social media that a shot was fired at Kirk shortly after 12 p.m. local time, and he was hit.
Video of the incident showed Kirk speaking to a large crowd at an outdoor "Prove Me Wrong" debate, where he invites students to challenge his political and cultural views, when the shot rings out.
Elected officials on both sides of the aisle had swiftly condemned the attack on Kirk and denounced acts of political violence.
Turning Point USA, organization founded by Kirk, issues statement on Kirk's death
In its first formal public statement, Kirk's organization, Turning Point USA, confirmed Kirk's death and asked for prayers for his young family."It is with a heavy heart that we confirm that Charles James Kirk has been murdered by a gunshot that took place during Turning Point USA's 'The American Comeback Tour' campus event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025," TPUSA wrote. "May he be received into the merciful arms of our loving savior, who suffered and died for Charlie. We ask that everyone keep his family and loved ones in your prayers. We ask that you please respect their privacy and dignity at this time."