Charlie Kirk, the influencer and activist who co-founded right-wing group Turning Point USA, has died at the age of 31 after being shot while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University, according to his spokesperson Andrew Kolvet, speaking to the New York Times. Deseret News had earlier reported Kirk’s death, according to Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz, and President Donald Trump said Kirk is dead in a post on Truth Social at 4:40PM ET.
At a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Utah Governor Spencer Cox said that “we have a person of interest in custody,” minutes after FBI Director Kash Patel tweeted an announcement that “The subject for the horrific shooting today that took the life of Charlie Kirk is now in custody.”
Just before 8PM ET, Kash tweeted again, saying, “The subject in custody has been released after an interrogation by law enforcement. Our investigation continues and we will continue to release information in interest of transparency.”
Following the shooting, videos on social media seemed to show the arrest of an alleged suspect. Utah Valley University initially said that a suspect was in custody, but Deseret News reported that, according to officials, the status of the shooter is unclear. A spokesperson has also told the New York Times that a person taken into custody after the shooting was not actually the shooter.
According to media reports, he appeared to have been hit in the neck. A spokesperson for the university, Ellen Treanor, said in a statement that “shots were fired from a building about 200 yards from the speaker.” The school later said its campus will be closed through Sunday, September 14th.
On behalf of Utah Valley University, we are shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Charlie Kirk, a guest to our campus. Our hearts go out to his family. As we grieve with our students, faculty, and staff who bore witness to this unspeakable tragedy, UVU campuses will be closed from September 11-14.
At the time of the shooting, Kirk was speaking at the first event of a scheduled 15-stop American Comeback Tour, and seated at a “Prove Me Wrong Table” taking questions from the crowd, according to the New York Times.
Update, September 10th: Added the latest information about a person of interest who was interrogated and released.
It’s a tragic situation to hear about such a loss, especially in the context of an event meant to inspire and engage. My thoughts are with those affected during this difficult time.
It really is tragic, especially given that these events are typically focused on fostering dialogue and community. This incident highlights the broader issues of safety and violence that can overshadow important discussions. It’s a reminder of the need for more effective measures to ensure safety at public gatherings.
I completely agree; it’s heartbreaking to see such violence disrupt a space meant for discussion. It’s a reminder of the importance of safety at public events. Hopefully, this tragic incident prompts a deeper conversation about how to ensure that dialogue can occur without fear.
is indeed tragic, especially considering the potential for dialogue and understanding at events like these. It’s important to remember that while passionate disagreements can arise, fostering a safe environment for conversation is crucial for progress.
Absolutely, it’s heartbreaking to see such violence disrupt spaces meant for discussion and connection. Events like these often serve as a platform for diverse viewpoints, which makes this loss even more significant. It’s a reminder of the importance of fostering safe environments for all voices.
I completely agree; it’s tragic when violence intrudes on dialogue and community. Events like these should foster understanding, not fear. Hopefully, this incident sparks deeper conversations about safety and the importance of respectful discourse.
can really polarize opinions and overshadow the intended message. It’s important to remember the impact such incidents have on the larger conversation about political activism and safety. Hopefully, this will encourage a focus on peaceful discourse moving forward.
You’re right; such events can indeed overshadow the core message. It’s a tragic reminder of how violence can disrupt dialogue and understanding, making it crucial for communities to foster safer spaces for discussion.
Absolutely, it’s heartbreaking when violence disrupts important conversations. It’s crucial to remember that these events often serve as a platform for significant discussions on political and social issues. Striking a balance between safety and open dialogue is essential moving forward.
It’s indeed tragic, and it highlights the need for safer spaces for dialogue. Events like these should foster understanding and connection, not fear. Hopefully, this prompts a wider discussion on addressing violence at political gatherings.
Absolutely, it’s heartbreaking to see violence interrupt important discussions. This incident really emphasizes how crucial it is to create environments where differing opinions can be expressed without fear. It’s a reminder for all organizations to prioritize safety and respect in their gatherings.