OREM, Utah — Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz has confirmed that Charlie Kirk, founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, has died following a shooting at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
The incident unfolded during a speaking engagement on campus, when a single round was fired, striking Kirk as he addressed attendees. Emergency medical teams rushed to provide aid before transporting him to a nearby hospital, but Kirk later succumbed to his injuries. He was 30 years old.
Initial reports about the shooter caused confusion. Authorities originally detained an older man, identified as Michael Mallinson of Payson, Utah, after footage circulated online showing him being placed in handcuffs. However, university spokesperson Scott Trotter clarified late Wednesday that Mallinson was not the shooter and has been cleared of any involvement. Police have since confirmed that the actual suspect remains at large.
“We can confirm that Mr. Kirk was shot, but at this time the suspect is not in custody. Police are still actively investigating. Campus is closed for the rest of the day,” Trotter said in an earlier statement before news of Kirk’s passing was released.
The chaotic moments following the gunfire were captured in viral videos, showing students and attendees scrambling for cover as security and law enforcement rushed into the venue. Authorities emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public, but an active manhunt is underway to locate the shooter.
The attack has sparked a wave of shock and grief across the country. Utah Senator Mike Lee posted on social media, writing, “I am tracking the situation at Utah Valley University closely. Please join me in praying for Charlie Kirk and the students gathered there.” Vice President JD Vance also weighed in, saying, “Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father.”
Kirk, widely recognized as a prominent conservative commentator and activist, founded Turning Point USA in 2012. The organization quickly became a leading voice for young conservatives, establishing a strong presence on college campuses nationwide. His influence as a speaker, author, and activist made him a polarizing yet significant figure in American political discourse.
As of now, investigators have not released the suspect’s name or a possible motive for the attack. Local authorities are working with federal partners to review surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and analyze evidence collected from the scene.
Utah Valley University officials confirmed that the campus will remain closed until further notice while the investigation continues. The incident has deeply shaken the community, with students, faculty, and residents struggling to come to terms with the violence that claimed the life of one of the nation’s most visible conservative voices.
Leave a Reply