Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA and a prominent figure in conservative youth politics, was fatally shot Wednesday afternoon while speaking at Utah Valley University. The incident occurred around 12:10 PM MDT during an outdoor Q&A session under a tent labeled “American Comeback.” Kirk was reportedly answering a question about mass shootings when a single shot rang out from a nearby building. Witnesses say he collapsed immediately, clutching his neck.
Kirk, 31, was transported from the scene by his security team. His death was later confirmed by TPUSA spokesperson Andrew Kolvet and publicly acknowledged by President Donald Trump on Truth Social:
“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead… He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us.”
The shooter remains at large. UVU initially reported a suspect in custody, but later clarified that the individual detained was not the perpetrator. The FBI and DOJ are now leading the investigation.
Former Congressman Jason Chaffetz, who attended the event, described the moment of the shooting:
“As soon as the shot went out, everybody hit the deck and started scattering and yelling and screaming.”
Who Was Charlie Kirk?
Charlie Kirk was born in 1993 in Arlington Heights, Illinois. He founded Turning Point USA in 2012 at the age of 18, launching the organization from his parents’ garage with seed funding from conservative donors. TPUSA’s mission was to promote conservative values on high school and college campuses, and under Kirk’s leadership, it grew into one of the largest youth political organizations in the country—with over 850 campus chapters and more than 260,000 student members.
Kirk was known for his combative style and frequent media appearances, including over 200 segments on Fox News and CNBC. He hosted The Charlie Kirk Show, a top-ranked conservative podcast, and led several TPUSA initiatives including Turning Point Action, Turning Point Faith, and the Professor Watchlist.
He was also a close ally of President Trump, often appearing alongside him at rallies and events. Kirk’s wife, Erika Frantzve, is a former Miss Arizona USA and founder of the nonprofit Everyday Heroes Like You.
Local Reaction
Brady Thomson, chapter leader of Turning Point USA at Cedar Valley High School, shared the following statement with the Sentinel:
“Today’s events at UVU has shaken me and my chapter. I was personally not present at the event but we had several students there from my chapter and our school, and I’m extremely grateful they are safe. My heart is heavy for Charlie, his family, and those that had to experience this traumatic event.”
“Political violence has no place in this country. Our country was built on the premise that you have the right to your beliefs without fear of persecution. Agree or disagree, no one should ever fear for their life because of their beliefs.
Please keep him and his loved ones in your prayers.”
The Sentinel will continue to provide verified updates as the investigation unfolds. For real-time coverage, community reactions, and student perspectives, follow our Live Updates thread and social channels.
Photo: About Gage Skidmore | Flickr
Mike Kieffer – Editor-in-Chief, Cedar Valley Sentinel
Mike Kieffer is a dynamic leader and community advocate based in Eagle Mountain, Utah. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the Cedar Valley Sentinel, a local publication dedicated to informing, inspiring, and elevating the Cedar Valley community through honest and accurate journalism. With a passion for fostering connections, Kieffer has made it his mission to highlight local businesses, provide reliable news, and support community development.
Beyond his editorial role, Kieffer is the owner of Lake Mountain Media, LLC, a company specializing in media and communications, and the co-owner of Quail Run Farms, which focuses on sustainable farming and community engagement. He also actively contributes to the local economy and culture as a member of the Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce.
Kieffer’s dedication extends to preserving and promoting the history and heritage of the Cedar Valley area. He often participates in community-centered events and media, including podcasts that explore the unique aspects of life in the region. Through his varied endeavors, he remains a steadfast advocate for the growth and enrichment of the local community.