Charlie Kirk, one of the most influential voices in American youth conservatism and founder of the activist group Turning Point USA (TPUSA), was shot in the neck while leading an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday. The incident took place during a stop on the “American Comeback” tour, organized by TPUSA’s local chapter. He was 31.
He was hit while responding to a question from the audience. After the attack, Kirk was taken to Timpanogos Regional Hospital, where his condition was listed as critical. His health did not improve, and his death was later confirmed by medical specialists. The organization later issued an official statement:
"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. 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."
Political and public figures' reactions
News of Kirk’s death quickly became public, with family, friends, supporters, and colleagues saying their final goodbyes. Ivanka Trump was among them. She had spent time with him and his family. On her Instagram stories, the influencer and businesswoman shared a photo of Charlie with his wife, Erika, and their children, which became a more meaningful family memory as Charlie gave Erika a tender kiss while they both held their little ones. “Rest in peace, Charlie,” Ivanka wrote in mourning.
Reactions from political leaders soon followed. President Donald Trump announced the news on Truth Social, calling it a tragic incident and expressing sympathy to Kirk’s family.
"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. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!"
Former President Joe Biden condemned the attack in a statement on X, urging an end to political violence. "There is no place in our country for this kind of violence. It must end now. Jill and I are praying for Charlie Kirk’s family and loved ones."
Echoing those remarks, former President Barack Obama highlighted the broader threat such acts pose to democracy. "We don’t yet know what motivated the person who shot and killed Charlie Kirk, but this kind of despicable violence has no place in our democracy. Michelle and I will be praying for Charlie’s family tonight, especially his wife Erika and their two young children."
Former Vice President Kamala Harris also voiced her concern, calling the shooting troubling. "I am deeply disturbed by the shooting in Utah. Doug and I send our prayers to Charlie Kirk and his family," she wrote, later adding, "Let me be clear: Political violence has no place in America. I condemn this act, and we all must work together to ensure this does not lead to more violence."
Hollywood figures also shared their reactions to Kirk’s death
Guardians of the Galaxy star Chris Pratt was among the first, writing on X, “Praying for Charlie Kirk and his family during this unimaginable time. No one should ever face violence for their beliefs. Rest in peace.”
Former California governor and actor Arnold Schwarzenegger also condemned the attack. “This is a tragedy that shakes us all. Charlie Kirk was a fighter for what he believed in, and violence has no place in America,” he stated. “My thoughts are with Erika and the kids.”
Suspect and Investigation
The perpetrator of the attack remains at large. The university issued a statement saying, “There was a single shot fired from the top of a nearby building, about 200 meters away. As far as we know, he was hit and a suspect is in custody.” However, it was later said that the person detained was not the shooter; for now, the perpetrator remains free.
Charlie Kirk, His Background and Surviving Family
Kirk, originally from Chicago, Illinois, was born in October 1993 and pursued his political career as an ally of Trump. His professional path stood out for his work as a writer, commentator, and activist, as well as for founding the conservative student organization Turning Point USA.
In his personal life, Charlie was married to former Miss Arizona Erika Lane Frantzve, with whom he celebrated their fourth wedding anniversary this past May. Together they built a family with two children, a boy and a girl, whom they kept private and away from social media.