The FBI is currently collaborating with state and local law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the tragic and fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk, founder of the conservative youth activist organization Turning Point USA. This incident occurred during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. As the manhunt for the shooter continues, the FBI has called upon the public for assistance, urging anyone with relevant information, photographs, or videos from the scene to come forward and aid in the investigation.
FBI Director Kash Patel expressed the agency's unwavering support for the ongoing response and investigation into the shooting. Authorities plan to hold a press conference at 9 a.m. ET on Thursday to provide further updates on the situation. Following the tragic event, Utah Valley University announced that it would remain closed until September 14, as stated in a notice on the university's official website.
Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old father of two, was a prominent figure within the conservative movement and a close ally of former President Donald Trump. He founded Turning Point USA in 2012 at just 18 years old and played a pivotal role in garnering support for Trump among young voters during the upcoming 2024 elections. During the outdoor event at UVU, which was expected to include a "prove me wrong" table, Kirk was shot shortly after noon. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
More than 3,000 attendees were estimated to have been present at the event, according to Jeff Long, the university's police chief. There were six police officers on-site in addition to Kirk's private security team. Despite some controversy surrounding Kirk's visit, including an online petition initiated by students opposing his appearance, local authorities reported no specific or credible threats leading up to the shooting.
Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason described the shooting as a targeted attack, noting that the scene covered a large area. Initial investigations revealed that the shot was likely fired from a distance, possibly from a rooftop. Authorities have stated that there is no evidence implicating anyone else in the crime. Robert Bohls, the Salt Lake City FBI Special Agent in Charge, indicated that the investigation is still in its early stages, with all leads and evidence being followed up on diligently.
Following the shooting, two individuals were initially taken into custody but were later released. One of these individuals faced charges for obstruction by university police, while the other was interrogated and subsequently released without any charges. Utah law enforcement has confirmed that there are no current ties between these individuals and the shooting.
Former President Trump expressed his sorrow over Kirk's death, stating on social media, “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead.” He described Kirk as someone who understood and connected with the youth of America like no one else and extended condolences to Kirk's family. Trump also ordered that all American flags be flown at half-staff through Sunday evening in memory of Kirk.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox condemned the shooting as a political assassination, emphasizing that those responsible would be held accountable. In a statement on the platform X, he urged for unity across political lines to denounce such acts of violence. Similarly, President Joe Biden and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro condemned the attack, highlighting the urgent need to address growing political violence in society.
California Governor Gavin Newsom also expressed his dismay, labeling the attack on Kirk as “disgusting, vile, and reprehensible.” He urged for a collective rejection of political violence in all its forms, reinforcing the need for a peaceful discourse in American politics.
This incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice, as the community mourns the loss of a prominent figure in the conservative movement. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities continue to seek any information that may lead to the apprehension of the individual responsible for this tragic event.
