Authorities found a ‘high powered’ rifle believed to the weapon used by the assassin in a wooded area near the Utah university.
Conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, 31, was fatally shot in the neck while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University at approximately 12:10 p.m. MT on Sept. 10.Only one shot was fired.
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Manhunt Continues for Suspect: What We Know
Authorities are searching for the perpetrator who fatally shot conservative influencer Charlie Kirk at an event at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10.
The shooter, who wore dark clothing, fired from a campus building roughly 200 yards from Kirk, the university and authorities said. Authorities said the suspect then jumped off the building and fled into a neighborhood.
The FBI said it recovered the weapon, a high-powered bolt action rifle, in a nearby wooded area.
The shooter appeared to be college-aged and “blended in well” at the college, authorities said.
Authorities said they have footage of the shooter but are not ready to release it.
Two people of interest were questioned over the incident and later cleared. Authorities have requested tips from the public in their search for the suspect.
President Donald Trump, in remarks on Wednesday evening, vowed to find those responsible for the killing and hold them accountable. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox described the act as a “political assassination.
”U.S. lawmakers have called for heightened security in the wake of the attack, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said on Wednesday evening.
By T.J. Muscaro
FBI Releases Video of Suspected Shooter
The FBI has released a video of the suspected shooter in the killing of Charlie Kirk.
The video, posted to the FBI’s website, begins with an individual in dark clothing running dozens of feet across a roof overlooking the bowl-like area where Kirk was speaking.
As the suspect approached the ledge, he swung a bag off his shoulder, then hung down over the ledge and dropped. The fall was roughly 10 to 15 feet.
In a post on X including a link to the video, the FBI said, “Trace evidence collected from the rooftop includes shoe impressions, a forearm imprint, and a palm print.”
The weapon and ammunition used in the attack were found in a wooded area near Utah Valley University, where the shooting occurred.
The Salt Lake City branch of the FBI has offered a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspect, who has yet to be identified or apprehended.
By Joseph Lord
Officials Give Update on the Manhunt for Charlie Kirk’s Assassin
Candlelight Vigil for Charlie Kirk
OREM, Utah—A candlelight vigil for Charlie Kirk. pic.twitter.com/CR5FPkn5ho
— Nathan Worcester (@nnworcester) September 12, 2025
Air Force Two Touches Down in Phoenix
Air Force Two, carrying the casket of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, has touched down in Phoenix and his body is being transported by hearse to a mortuary in the city.
The administration offered the vice presidential aircraft to transport Kirk’s remains from Utah, where he was killed Wednesday, to his home in Arizona.
Before the plane departed Utah, Vice President JD Vance—who called Kirk a personal friend as well as a political ally—was seen assisting U.S. service members in loading the casket.
It’s an unusual honor for a civilian, reflecting the administration’s admiration for Kirk.
On Wednesday evening, President Donald Trump called the Turning Point USA founder a “martyr for truth,” and ordered that flags be flown at half staff until around sundown on Sept. 14 in honor of Kirk.
Funeral details have not yet been announced, but Trump has already committed to attending the service.
“They’ve asked me to go, and I think I have an obligation to be there,” he told reporters as he left the White House to attend a baseball game at Yankee Stadium in New York City.
FBI Releases New Photos of ‘Person of Interest’
The FBI on Thursday evening released new photos of a “person of interest” in the killing of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University the day prior.
“The FBI continues to work alongside our law enforcement partners to seek justice in the murder of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. We are releasing additional photos of a person of interest,” the Salt Lake City branch of the FBI said in a post on X.
The FBI continues to work alongside our law enforcement partners to seek justice in the murder of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. We are releasing additional photos of a person of interest. Information about this developing investigation can be found… pic.twitter.com/woZacCxYgE
— FBI Salt Lake City (@FBISaltLakeCity) September 12, 2025
The post includes four photos of the suspect. They show an individual who appears to be a young man wearing a blue cap and sunglasses and dressed in a black graphic t-shirt with an American flag design across the chest, and blue jeans.
Vance Helps Load Kirk’s Casket Onto Air Force Two
Vice President JD Vance on Thursday evening assisted U.S. servicemembers in loading Charlie Kirk’s casket onto Air Force Two.
🚨 JUST IN: VP JD Vance helped load Charlie Kirk’s casket onto Air Force Two
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) September 11, 2025
This is beautiful. I love how much Charlie is being honored.
An incredible send off for an incredible patriot 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/tqPKbqlivS
The administration offered the use of Air Force Two, the vice president’s aircraft, to transport Kirk’s body from Utah to his home in Arizona. It’s an unusual honor for a civilian.
Vance has called Kirk a personal friend as well as a political ally.
The vice president was joined by Kirk’s wife Erika and some of their family members and close friends.
The vice president canceled plans to be in New York City to commemorate 9/11 and instead flew to Utah the day after Kirk was fatally shot.
In an address to the nation on Wednesday evening, President Donald Trump described Kirk as a “martyr for truth,” and ordered that flags be flown at half staff until around sundown on Sept. 14 in honor of Kirk.
By Joseph Lord
Ben Shapiro Book Signing Postponed After Kirk’s Assassination
Conservative firebrand Ben Shapiro on Sept. 11 disputed rumors about canceling a speaking tour following the assassination of his friend Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University and vowed to continue “telling the truth.”
Shapiro spoke out following the postponement of a book signing scheduled for the night before at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Southern California.
“I saw a lot of rumors online … that I canceled some college tour,” Shapiro said in an impassioned video statement on X. “They are false. I will be coming to college campuses, many of them this year. So will we all, I am sure. Because we’re Americans. We are not going to be deterred. Charlie’s voice is not silent.
DC Conservative Hang Out Hiring Armed Security
In the aftermath of the Charlie Kirk assassination, a bar and restaurant patronized by many Washington, D.C., conservatives and Trump administration staffers will be making changes.
The Epoch Times confirmed that Butterworth’s is hiring armed security.
The establishment, which opened in October 2024, has attracted patrons including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and commentator Steve Bannon.
Trump Says Supporters Should Follow Kirk’s Model of Non-Violence
President Donald Trump was asked how his supporters should respond to Charlie Kirk’s assassination.
“He was an advocate of non-violence,” Trump told reporters as he was leaving the White House to go to a Yankees game in New York. “That’s the way I’d like to see people respond.”
Trump to Attend Kirk’s Funeral
President Donald Trump said he plans to attend Charlie Kirk’s funeral, which he expects will take place in Arizona.
“They’ve asked me to go, and I think I have an obligation to be there,” he told reporters as he left the White House to attend a baseball game at Yankee Stadium in New York City.
Funeral details have not yet been announced.
Witness Recounts the Shot, Chaotic Aftermath
OREM, Utah—Jeremy King came to hear Charlie Kirk speak at Utah Valley University with his wife, Amy.
“We showed up right as Charlie was getting out of his Escalade,” King told The Epoch Times outside Timpanogos Regional Hospital, where mourners have set up bouquets, flags, and other tributes to the late conservative influencer.
Trump Says He Has ‘An Indication’ of Shooter’s Motive
President Donald Trump said he has “an indication” of the motive behind Charlie Kirk’s slaying.
“I have an indication, yeah, but we’ll let you know about that later,” he said before departing the White House for a baseball game to commemorate 9/11 at Yankee Stadium in New York City.
He also said he spoke with Kirk’s widow, Erika.
“She’s devastated, she’s absolutely devastated,” the president said.
Trump said law enforcement is making “big progress” toward finding the shooter.
The manhunt for the killer is ongoing.
TikTok Will Remove Videos of Kirk’s Assassination, Rep. Luna Says
Social media company TikTok will remove videos of the assassination of Charlie Kirk from its platform, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) announced on Thursday.
“We remain committed to proactively enforcing our Community Guidelines and have implemented additional safeguards to prevent people from unexpectedly viewing footage that violates our rules,” TikTok wrote in a statement to Luna, which she shared on social media.
Luna, a two-term member from Florida’s 13th congressional district, has publicly criticized celebrations of Kirk’s death, both in public and by a minority of users on social media platforms, including X. Rep. Clay Higgins (R-La.) has called for the removal of users from these platforms for such statements.
Luna said that Kirk was one of her early supporters who encouraged her to run for Congress. “I owe my entire political career to Charlie Kirk. I would quite literally not be in office today if it weren’t for him,” she wrote. Luna led efforts to gain signatures for a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) seeking a statue of Kirk to be erected in the U.S. Capitol.
By Arjun Singh
Kirk Mourned Outside Utah Hospital
OREM, Utah—American flags, flowers, signs, and other tributes have been placed outside Timpanogos Regional Hospital, where Kirk was taken after being shot during an event at nearby Utah Valley University.
A vigil for the late conservative influencer will take place at a nearby park later on Thursday evening.
Mourner Eric Wright described Kirk as “a guy who believed in God.”
Wright, who said he watched many of Kirk’s videos, decried political violence.
“If you believe trans is right, if you believe trans is not right—doesn’t matter. You shouldn’t kill someone over it,” he told The Epoch Times.
Cheyenne Gambier, another mourner, told The Epoch Times she was avoiding social media in the wake of Kirk’s assassination.
“There’s people that are positive, and there’s other people that are just so negative about it,” she said. “Where’s our sense of humanity?”
Wright said the daughter of someone he knows was at the Sept. 10 event where Kirk was shot. It was a traumatic experience.
“She was having problems [after] seeing it,” he said.
Another mourner, who chose to remain anonymous, held a sign reading, “Never Forget.”
He also set up speakers to play gospel music and patriotic songs.
“I feel as if he helped speak for a group of individuals who felt as if their voice was being silenced,” the man told The Epoch Times.
Trump Received Texts, Calls From Foreign Leaders on Kirk, Wiles Says
President Donald Trump has received texts and phone calls from foreign leaders regarding Charlie Kirk’s death, according to White House chief of staff Susie Wiles.
“Charlie was very much a part of this family and maybe the highest profile MAGA person outside of those that are working here,” she told Republican strategist Scott Jennings on his radio show.
Trump Jr. Broke News of Kirk’s Death to His Father
Donald Trump Jr., one of President Donald Trump’s sons, said he broke the news to his father of Charlie Kirk’s death.
“I found out right before my father called me back on something,” he said on a radio show hosted by Republican strategist Scott Jennings. “I’d found out that he had passed, and I think I was the one that broke the news to him, and it was a rough day.”
The younger Trump and Kirk had a close relationship.
“I’d spoken to him probably every single day for the last 10 years,” Trump Jr. said.
“He was truly a remarkable guy and I had that conversation. I spoke with my father a couple times yesterday about it.”
Trump Jr. said his father was “shocked” by the news.
Turning Point USA ‘Crushed and Devastated’ by Kirk’s Death
Turning Point USA (TPUSA), which Charlie Kirk founded, released a statement on Kirk’s X account the day after his assassination.
“Every one of us at Turning Point USA is crushed and devastated by the hateful murder of our founder and guiding light, Charlie Kirk. All of us have lost a leader, a mentor, and a friend,” the group said.
The organization expressed its sympathies with Kirk’s family. He leaves behind his wife, Erika, and two young children.
“More than anyone, Charlie believed in the power of argument and good-faith debate to find the truth and guide people towards, if not agreement, then at least mutual understanding,” the TPUSA statement said.
The statement added that 31-year-old Kirk “was no stranger to threats” as “he received thousands throughout his life.”
TPUSA called Kirk “America’s greatest martyr to the freedom of speech he so adored.”
The organization noted that Kirk “launched Turning Point out of his parents’ garage as an 18-year-old with no money, no name recognition, only a dream.”
“Although Charlie is gone, his legacy will endure. He shall not grow old; age shall not weary him,” the statement said.
“For all time, he will remain the brave young man who inspired tens of millions of Americans to better themselves and take action to better America.”
Chris Pratt, Jason Aldean Among Celebrities Paying Tribute to Charlie Kirk
Law enforcement officers on Sept. 11 rushed to the headquarters of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) in Washington after learning of a potential bomb threat, a U.S. Capitol Police spokesperson told The Epoch Times in an email.
“Officers immediately responded and are currently checking the building and surrounding areas. So far nothing has been found outside,” the spokesperson said. “We are checking inside of the building out of an abundance of caution.”
U.S. Capitol Police became aware of the threat at approximately 1:07 p.m.
Police Respond to Bomb Threat at DNC Headquarters
Law enforcement officers on Sept. 11 rushed to the headquarters of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) in Washington after learning of a potential bomb threat, a U.S. Capitol Police spokesperson told The Epoch Times in an email.
“Officers immediately responded and are currently checking the building and surrounding areas. So far nothing has been found outside,” the spokesperson said. “We are checking inside of the building out of an abundance of caution.”
U.S. Capitol Police became aware of the threat at approximately 1:07 p.m.
Vance to Fly Kirk’s Casket, Family From Utah to Arizona on Air Force Two
Vice President JD Vance plans to escort Charlie Kirk’s casket, along with his wife Erika and some of their family members and close friends, on Air Force Two from Utah to Arizona on Thursday, a source familiar with the plans told The Epoch Times.
Vance canceled plans to be in New York City to commemorate 9/11 and instead flew to Utah the day after Kirk was fatally shot.
By Jackson Richman and Emel Akan
FBI Offers $100K Reward
The FBI is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the shooter behind the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
The suspect remains at large.
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the individual(s) responsible for the murder of Charlie Kirk on September 10, 2025, at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Contact 1-800-CALL-FBI and submit photos and video to the FBI here.
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the individual(s) responsible for the murder of Charlie Kirk on September 10, 2025, at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Contact 1-800-CALL-FBI and submit photos and… pic.twitter.com/ReuzFhdm0H
— FBI (@FBI) September 11, 2025
Conservative Influencers Mourn the Loss of Charlie Kirk
One day after the assassination of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, tributes and condolences are pouring in from his colleagues on social media.
“I can’t process this,” liberal-turned-conservative Candace Owens posted on X, with a broken heart emoji. She and Kirk were longtime friends who rose to prominence together in the conservative movement. The pair engaged in a wide-ranging interview in 2022, where they reminisced over 10 years on the job together and their lives as new parents.
Conservative talk show host Ben Shapiro posted a video of himself reciting Psalm 23 shortly after it was announced that Kirk had succumbed to his injury.
Witness Recounts Kirk Assassination
OREM, Utah—Koby Herrera, a student at Utah Valley University, told The Epoch Times he was present at the Sept. 10 event where Charlie Kirk was shot and killed.
“I woke up today kind of hoping I woke up from a nightmare,” Herrera said.
He believes security at the event—six law enforcement officers for an event that attracted 3,000 people—was inadequate.
Herrera, who wore a MAGA hat as he spoke with The Epoch Times, wondered if he was safe wearing it.
He recounted the mood before tragedy struck.
“People were happy to be here. There was so much patriotism,” the sophomore transfer student said.
Herrera witnessed the incident unfold, but did not catch a glimpse of the suspected shooter, who is believed to have climbed off the top of a nearby building and fled.
“A coward,” Herrera said, reacting to photographs of a “person of interest” released by the FBI on X.
Although the FBI has not apprehended that suspect, Herrera said he does not feel nervous on campus, as the shooting appears to have been a targeted assassination.
He voiced frustration with law enforcement leads on Wednesday that went nowhere.
“We’re told, ‘We have a guy’… then we have a guy—and now people are threatening him. So, when does the threat stop?” he said, referring to two persons of interest apprehended and released by law enforcement.
Amid the sadness and shock on campus, Herrera thinks the killer may have only strengthened Kirk’s message.
“I think what he did was put Charlie in his grave for sure, but [also] to give him a bigger mic,” he said.
FBI Releases Images of ‘Person of Interest’
The FBI has shared images of a “person of interest” in connection with the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
The two images posted just before noon ET on Sept. 11 showed a slim male wearing sunglasses, a black, long-sleeve t-shirt with what appeared to be a graphic of the American flag, blue jeans, and a baseball cap.
“We are asking for the public’s help identifying this person of interest in connection with the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University,” the FBI wrote on X, along with a number to call—1-800-CALL-FBI—and a link to a tip submission webpage.
We are asking for the public's help identifying this person of interest in connection with the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.
— FBI Salt Lake City (@FBISaltLakeCity) September 11, 2025
1-800-CALL-FBI
Digital media tips: https://t.co/K7maX81TjJ pic.twitter.com/ALuVkTXuDc
US State Department Warns Visa Holders Against Cheering Charlie Kirk’s Assassination
The deputy secretary of state on Thursday called on people to report foreign visa applicants and holders in the United States if they’ve expressed statements praising, making light of, or rationalizing the assassination of Charlie Kirk. The conservative commentator was killed on Wednesday at a college campus in Utah.
“In light of yesterday’s horrific assassination of a leading political figure, I want to underscore that foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors to our country. I have been disgusted to see some on social media praising, rationalizing, or making light of the event, and have directed our consular officials to undertake appropriate action,” Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau wrote in a statement on social media.
He also wrote, “Please feel free to bring such comments by foreigners to my attention so that the @StateDept can protect the American people.”
MSNBC Fires Matthew Dowd Over Comments on Assassination of Charlie Kirk
WASHINGTON—MSNBC has fired Matthew Dowd as an analyst following comments he made following the Sept. 10 shooting death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, a network source told The Epoch Times.
Appearing on the network during live coverage of the incident on Wednesday, Dowd suggested that Kirk had it coming.
“He’s been one of the most divisive, especially divisive, younger, figures in this who has constantly sort of pushing this sort of hate speech or sort of aimed at certain groups. And I always go back to hateful thoughts lead to hateful words which then lead to hateful actions. And I think that’s the environment that we’re in,” he said.
Trump Says He’ll Speak With Kirk Family This Afternoon
President Donald Trump said he will speak with Charlie Kirk’s family on Thursday afternoon.
“I can’t believe Charlie—what a great guy he was,” Trump said at the Pentagon after a ceremony to commemorate the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
“You don’t replace a Charlie Kirk. He was unique.”
Trump also said that he had been briefed on the ongoing manhunt for the shooter.
Utah Releases 911 Calls, Description of Possible Suspect
The Utah Department of Public Safety released via Broadcastify the 911 calls and radio traffic related to the Sept. 10 assassination of Charlie Kirk. One dispatch includes an officer reporting a person on campus just east of the library wearing “jeans, black shirt, black mask,” with a “long rifle.”
Other 911 calls also described seeing a person who fit that description; another mentioned a person wearing a black vest.
By T.J. Muscaro
Trump to Award Presidential Medal of Freedom to Charlie Kirk Posthumously
President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that he will posthumously award Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.
“We miss him greatly yet I have no doubt that Charlie’s voice and the courage he put into the hearts of countless people, especially young people, will live on. I am pleased to announce that I will soon be awarding Charlie Kirk, posthumously, the Presidential Medal of Freedom,” Trump said at the start of his 9/11 remembrance speech at the Pentagon.
Trump said that the date of the ceremony will be announced later.
“I can only guarantee you one thing,” he said. “That we will have a very big crowd.”
Utah Official Details Suspected Shooter’s Movements
As the search for Charlie Kirk’s assassin enters its second day, Utah’s public safety commissioner Beau Mason shared some details on what is known about the suspected shooter’s movement.
Mason said investigators have eyes on the suspect arriving on campus at 11:52 a.m. local time on Sept. 10, and they tracked his movements through campus, up stairwells, and onto the roof to the shooting location. Kirk was shot around 12:20 p.m. local time.
They were then able to track the suspect as he moved onto the other side of the building, jumped off, and fled the campus into a neighborhood.
By T.J. Muscaro
FBI Believes Shooting Was Targeted Attack, Community Not at Risk
The FBI believes the assassination of Charlie Kirk on Sept. 10 was a targeted attack, according to Special Agent-in-Charge Robert Bohls.
“We don’t believe that the community is at risk,” Bohls told reporters on the morning of Sept. 11. “However, we are exhausting every resource to find him [the shooter], and we will do so.”
Weapon Found, Shooter Is ‘College Aged,’ FBI Says
The FBI said that it has discovered the weapon that was allegedly used in the shooting death of Charlie Kirk.
In a Thursday morning press conference, Special Agent Robert Bohls of the FBI’s Salt Lake City Field Office said the recovered weapon was a high-powered bolt action rifle. It was discovered in a wooded area through which officers believe the shooter fled after jumping off the roof of the building from which he fired.
The FBI laboratory is analyzing the weapon.
Additionally, agents collected footwear impressions, a palm print, and forearm imprints that will be analyzed.
Beau Mason, commissioner of the Utah Department of Public Safety, told reporters that the suspect appears to be college-aged and “blended in well with a college institution.”
“We are confident in our abilities to track that individual,” he said. “If we’re unsuccessful in identifying them immediately, we will reach out for the public’s help and the media’s help in pushing those photos.”
Officials said they also have footage of the perpetrator but are not ready to release it.
At Makeshift Memorial in Phoenix, Supporters Remember Impact of Charlie Kirk on Their Lives
PHOENIX—They came together, gripping American flags as tears traced silent paths down their faces. A soft glow from candles mingled with fresh flowers, all arranged beneath two banners bearing Charlie Kirk’s image and a prayer wishing him peace on his heavenly journey.
The conservative commentator was killed by an assassin’s bullet at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Sept. 10. Within hours, dozens of supporters gathered in Phoenix to honor his memory.
A line of yellow tape held the crowd at bay from a separate ceremony at Turning Point USA headquarters, where staff members bowed their heads in prayer for the organization’s founder.
Lawmakers Seek Increased Security After Kirk Killing: Speaker Johnson
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) told CNN on Wednesday that there has been a “deluge” of lawmaker calls for increased personal security in the wake of Charlie Kirk’s killing.
“I think many [members of Congress] are nervous, of course,” Johnson said. “They’re public figures. They’re exposed all the time, everywhere. We have great security measures for members of Congress, but there’s a desire on many people’s parts to have more.”
Johnson told CNN’s “The Source” that he is looking into the requests.
“We have to take serious measures for serious times,” he said.
By Joseph Lord
2 Persons of Interest Cleared, Released; Manhunt Ongoing
Authorities on Wednesday confirmed that two persons of interest who were taken into custody in connection to the killing of Charlie Kirk were released after being cleared of any links to the attack.
In a statement, the Utah Department of Public Safety disclosed that two individuals, George Zinn and Zachariah Qureshi, had been taken into custody and released Wednesday.
Zinn was charged by Utah Valley University police with obstruction of justice. Qureshi was “taken into custody and released after interrogation with law enforcement.”
“There are no current ties to the shooting with either of these individuals,” the statement said. “There is an ongoing investigation and manhunt for the shooter.”
Subject Taken Into Custody Has Been Released: FBI Director
FBI Director Kash Patel on Wednesday announced that the second person taken into custody in relation to the assassination of Charlie Kirk has been released.
“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,” Patel wrote in a post on X.
Initially, an elderly man was detained in relation to the murder. However, he was also released by police following questioning.
The Salt Lake City branch of the FBI established a tip line seeking information about the shooting. Officials currently believe that only one person was involved in the assassination.
Low-quality security camera footage from the campus shows that the perpetrator wore all dark clothing and likely fired from a rooftop, officials said.
By Joseph Lord
Prayer Vigil for Kirk Held Near Capitol Hill
As vigils were held around the country following the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk, a vigil and prayer service was held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Washington on the evening of Sept. 10. The church in the city’s Capitol Hill neighborhood is popular with congressional staff and employees of The Heritage Foundation, which is located down the street.
The prayer service began with a reading from the gospel of Matthew, a book of the Bible’s New Testament, quoting from Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount.
After a homily, the congregation recited the Lord’s Prayer and the Nicene Creed before a final blessing.
The church was surrounded by officers of the U.S. Capitol Police and D.C. Metropolitan Police.
By Arjun Singh
6 Officers on Duty at Event Attended by 3,000
According to officials, six university police officers were on duty during the campus event in which political activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated, and more than 3,000 people were in attendance.
During a Wednesday evening press conference, Utah Valley University Police Chief Jeff Long described the event location as “kind of a bowl area here on the central campus.”
The area’s layout meant that Kirk, who was sitting under a tent and taking questions from the audience when he was shot, was “kind of in a lower area surrounded by buildings,” Long said.
During the same press conference, Beau Mason, commissioner of the Utah Department of Public Safety, said that authorities believe the bullet that killed Kirk was a “longer distance shot” which was “potentially [shot] from a roof.”
Long added that the campus police department “had some plain clothes police officers that were in the crowd as well.”
According to Long, security for the event was handled by a mixed team of campus police officers and Kirk’s own private security.
“We did have officers there. We had Charlie Kirk’s team. He has a security team that travels with him, and they were here with him when he was shot,” Long said.
“You think you have things covered, and these things, unfortunately, they happen. You try to get your bases covered. And unfortunately, today, we didn’t, and because of that, we had this tragic incident.”
By Joseph Lord
Shooter Wore Dark Clothing, Shot From Roof: Authorities
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox and other authorities shared information on the suspected shooter during a press conference several hours after the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
The governor also said that a “person of interest” was in custody and being interviewed.
The available information on the suspect was taken from the campus’s security camera footage, which is closed circuit TV. Although the footage is still being analyzed, authorities said that the suspected shooter was dressed in all dark clothing, and the shot was potentially “a longer distance shot from a roof.”
Authorities said there was no information that led them to believe a second person was involved. The investigation is ongoing.
“We are actively looking for anyone and everyone who has any, any possible information relating to the shooter,” Cox said.
By T.J. Muscaro
Utah Gov. Cox: ‘This Is a Political Assassination’
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox told members of the press that the death of Charlie Kirk was a political assassination.
“This is a dark day for our state,” he said. “It’s a tragic day for our nation. I want to be very clear that this is a political assassination.”
Cox said the United States will soon be celebrating 250 years since the Declaration of Independence declared “that we are endowed by our creator with certain unalienable rights.”
“The first one of those is life, and today a life was taken,” he said.
“When someone takes the life of a person because of their ideas or their ideals, then that very constitutional foundation is threatened,” Cox said.
“Now we have a person of interest in custody. The investigation is ongoing, but I want to make it crystal clear right now to whoever did this, we will find you, we will try you and we will hold you accountable to the furthest extent of the law.”
Cox noted that Utah still has the death penalty.
By T.J. Muscaro
Turning Point USA Releases Statement on Charlie Kirk
Turning Point USA released an official statement on X confirming the death of its founder Charlie Kirk just over two hours after Kirk was assassinated.
“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,” the statement read.
“May he be received into the merciful arms of our loving Savior, who suffered and died for Charlie,” it added.
Turning Point USA asked everyone to keep Kirk’s family and his loved ones in their prayers and to respect their privacy and dignity.
— Turning Point USA (@TPUSA) September 10, 2025
By T.J. Muscaro
Witnesses Recount Scene of Charlie Kirk Assassination
Conservative political activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated on Sept. 10, while speaking in front of a large crowd as part of a campus speaking tour.
Kirk had just started taking audience questions at his event at Utah Valley University, in Orem, Utah, when he was struck by gunfire.
The stop at Utah Valley University was to be the opening event in his “American Comeback Tour.”
By Ryan Morgan
Charlie Kirk, Conservative Commentator, Assassinated at 31
Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at the age of 31 while speaking to a crowd of students at Utah Valley University in Orem on Wednesday.
The founder of Turning Point USA, Kirk was known for his fiery brand of conservative political advocacy that mobilized young voters across the nation in recent elections.
He was struck in the neck in broad daylight by a shooter while performing on stage at his “American Comeback” tour.
Charles James Kirk was born Oct. 14, 1993, in Arlington Heights, Illinois.
Raised by a mother who specialized in mental health counseling and an architect father, Kirk excelled in academics as a young child.
He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout while displaying leadership skills that would later propel him into the political arena.
Kirk’s first foray into politics was as a volunteer for a U.S. Senate campaign while attending high school.
He later found the media limelight after protesting what he described as a progressive bias in school textbooks.
Kirk’s trajectory continued to climb, and California Gov. Gavin Newsom recently interviewed him for his new podcast’s first episode.
President Donald Trump in a Truth Social post called Kirk’s death a “tragic loss for the conservative movement.”
This story will be updated with additional details.
Trump Orders Flags Flown at Half Staff to Honor Charlie Kirk
President Donald Trump has ordered flags to be flown at half staff for the rest of the week in honor of Charlie Kirk.
“In honor of Charlie Kirk, a truly Great American Patriot, I am ordering all American Flags throughout the United States lowered to Half Mast until Sunday evening at 6 P.M.,” the president wrote on Truth Social.
By T.J. Muscaro
Utah Mayor Urges People to Report Anything Suspicious Manhunt Continues
As the perpetrator in Charlie Kirk’s death remains at large, Mayor David Young of Orem, Utah, urged people to report anything suspicious as state and federal law enforcement agencies worked together to investigate the case.
That joint effort includes police from Orem and Utah Valley University, where Kirk was assassinated on the afternoon of Sept. 10.
Authorities told those at Utah Valley University to “secure in place,” and closed the campus and canceled classes. The school’s emergency information page instructed those still on campus to call officials for an escort out.
By T.J. Muscaro
Tributes Pour In for Charlie Kirk
Scores of national leaders and international leaders issued tributes to the life of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk after he was assassinated in Utah on Sept. 10.
Kirk was killed by a gunshot wound to the neck while speaking to students at Utah Valley University during an outdoor event. President Donald Trump issued a statement announcing that Kirk had died.
“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!” Trump wrote on social media.
“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,” Vice President JD Vance wrote in response to Trump’s statement.
“This is detestable, what’s happened,” House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), told reporters on Capitol Hill. “Political violence has become all too common in American society and this is not who we are. It violates the core principles of our country, our Judeo-Christian heritage, our civil society, our American way of life and it must stop.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted on X, “Praying for @charliekirk11,” referring to Kirk’s username. Kirk was an active user of social media and frequently used his X account to issue political statements.
“Rest in peace Charlie Kirk. The mark you have made on the world will forever be a blessing and memory. We pray for your eternal rest with our Lord. May God bless your family always and be with your children and wife Erika,” wrote Meghan McCain, a television host and the daughter of the late Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.).
Utah Governor Promises Justice for Charlie Kirk
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox announced that his state will work with the federal government to bring Charlie Kirk’s assassin to justice.
“I just got off the phone with President Trump,” Cox wrote on X. “Working with the FBI and Utah law enforcement, we will bring to justice the individual responsible for this tragedy.”
“Abby and I are heartbroken,” he added. “We are praying for Charlie’s wife, daughter, and son.”
The shooter remains at large.
By T.J. Muscaro
Trump Confirms Charlie Kirk Has Died
President Donald Trump announced that Charlie Kirk died after being shot during an event at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10.
“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead,” Trump announced on social media. “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!”
By T.J. Muscaro
Utah Valley University Closed, Classes Canceled, Campus on Lockdown
Utah Valley University, where Charlie Kirk was fatally shot on Sept. 10, has been closed indefinitely with all classes canceled, the university wrote in an emergency alert. The campus has also been placed on lockdown.
“Those on campus, secure in place until police officers can escort you safely off campus. Police are currently going building to building escorting people off campus. Roads to campus are currently closed,” read the emergency alert issued by Josh Berndt, a university spokesperson.
Police are attempting to locate the shooter, who remains at large.
By Arjun Singh
Shooter Still at Large, Authorities Say
The suspect in the assassination attempt on Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University is currently still at large, authorities said.
Kirk was speaking to a large crowd of university students outdoors when he was shot. The gunfire prompted the crowd to disperse, leading to a mass exodus from the venue.
An elderly man was initially taken into custody at the scene of the shooting, and footage of his detention was shared widely on social media with the implication that he was the suspected shooter. However, he was later released by police.
By Arjun Singh
Bipartisan Political Leaders Condemn Shooting of Charlie Kirk
WASHINGTON — Political leaders across the United States condemned the shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, which occurred at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10.
Kirk, founder of conservative youth group Turning Point USA and a frequent speaker at university campuses, was shot while speaking to an outdoor crowd of university students. Video footage of the incident posted on social media appears to show him being shot in the neck, with his condition being unknown at the time of writing.
Shortly after the news broke, high-ranking politicians and commentators from both political parties issued expressions of condolence and called for prayers that Kirk might survive the incident.
Charlie Kirk Shot at Utah Event
Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA was speaking at an event at Utah Valley University.
Conservative influencer Charlie Kirk was shot during an event in Utah on Sept. 10.
A single shot was fired at Kirk, 31, at approximately 12:10 p.m., while he was speaking at Utah Valley University, the university said on X. “He was hit and taken from the location by his security,” the school said.
Today at about 12:10 a shot was fired at the visiting speaker, Charlie Kirk. He was hit and taken from the location by his security. Campus police is investigating, a suspect is in custody.
— UVU (@UVU) September 10, 2025
University police are investigating and have taken a suspect in custody.
A spokeswoman for Turning Point USA confirmed that Kirk was shot and taken to a hospital.
The condition of Kirk, the founder and president of the national student group, is not immediately clear.
“We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot,” President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father,” Vice President JD Vance said.
Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father.
— JD Vance (@JDVance) September 10, 2025
California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who interviewed Kirk earlier this year, called the attack on Kirk “disgusting, vile, and reprehensible.”
The attack on Charlie Kirk is disgusting, vile, and reprehensible. In the United States of America, we must reject political violence in EVERY form.
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) September 10, 2025
Turning Point had said earlier Wednesday that Kirk was appearing at Utah Valley, a public university located about 41 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, in the first stop of a new tour that was scheduled to include 15 stops.
Kirk often travels to colleges to speak to students, sometimes setting up a “prove me wrong” table where he debates students. That table was slated to be part of the Utah appearance.
Jason Chaffetz, a Republican who was at the event, said on Fox News that he heard a shot and saw it knock Kirk backwards. “It seemed like it was a close shot,” Chaffetz said.
FBI Director Kash Patel said separately that FBI agents will be on the scene soon.
We are closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting involving Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected. Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and…
— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) September 10, 2025
Kirk is an ally of the administration, regularly visiting the White House and promoting Trump administration initiatives on social media and during television and podcast appearances.
A petition circling online attributed to Utah Valley University students had called for the school to reevaluate its decision to let Kirk appear on campus, alleging that he was “known for his divisive rhetoric that often supports policies and laws which aren’t inclusive and can marginalize various communities.”
The school on Sept. 3 said it was committed to free speech and “respects the rights of student clubs and organizations to invite various speakers to campus.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
This is a breaking story that will be updated.
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