American political activist and author Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during the Orem, Utah, stop of The American Comeback Tour.

A shot was heard at approximately 12:10 p.m. while Kirk was debating students on the Utah Valley University Campus (UVU) quad. UVU stated, “He was hit and taken from the location by his security. Campus police is investigating, a suspect is in custody”

Students who attended the event on the campus quad were seen in videos on social media scattering from the area.

California Governor Gavin Newsom posted on X, condemning the violence, writing, “The attack on Charlie Kirk is disgusting, vile, and reprehensible…We must reject political violence in EVERY form.”

President Donald J. Trump, on the platform Truth Social, confirmed the death of Kirk. “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead,” Trump stated.

The American Comeback Tour visited several college campuses this year, including California State University, Northridge. This previous visit to campus allowed students to be involved in an introductory debate setting.

With over 40,000 students enrolled at the UVU campus, a statement was released confirming the campus will be closed for the remainder of the day.

A preliminary suspect was arrested and later released. According to BBC, The investigation is currently ongoing with the FBI and the Utah Department of Public Safety leading investigation efforts. FBI Director Kash Patel said a suspect had been caught, though investigators on the ground said that they are still looking for the suspect at this time.

This story was last updated on Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025 at 4:01 p.m.