Breaking News: Charlie Kirk Shot During Speaking Engagement at Utah Valley University

Charlie Kirk Shot During Speaking Engagement at Utah Valley University

OREM, Utah — In a shocking turn of events, conservative political activist Charlie Kirk was shot during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University (UVU) on Tuesday. Kirk, the founder of the nonprofit organization Turning Point USA, is currently in critical condition following the incident.

The shooting occurred approximately 20 minutes into Kirk’s speech, which was taking place under a tent in the Sorensen Center courtyard. Eyewitnesses reported hearing gunshots fired from the top of the Losee Center, roughly 200 yards away from where Kirk was addressing a crowd of several thousand attendees. Video footage captured the moment Kirk was struck, showing him falling to his left as chaos erupted in the courtyard.

“I heard a shot and then there was a wave of blood come out of his chest, and we all got down,” recounted Ethan, a student present at the event. “It was pretty horrific; I had a couple of people trample me.”

As panic ensued, the crowd scattered amid screams, with many seeking shelter in nearby buildings. Angeline Paul, a student in a classroom adjacent to the courtyard, described the scene: “It just sounded like an earthquake, and everyone started screaming. All these kids started running into our classroom, falling on the ground, yelling, ‘There’s a shooter!’”

Initially, authorities reported that a suspect had been apprehended, but they later clarified that no one is currently in custody. Video from the scene showed a man being detained, but he has since been cleared of any involvement in the shooting.

In response to the incident, UVU has been placed on lockdown, and all classes for the day have been canceled. Meanwhile, Brigham Young University (BYU) remains open but has increased police presence on campus.

Witnesses expressed their disbelief at the unfolding events, with one student noting, “The craziest part about it is I think we’re all super-desensitized from movies and stuff, so I saw it and I immediately just couldn’t believe what my eyes were seeing.”

The FBI is closely monitoring the situation. Director Kash Patel issued a statement expressing condolences and support for those affected. “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,” he wrote.

As the investigation continues, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of this shocking incident. Stay tuned to FOX 13 News for ongoing coverage and updates on this developing story.