Charlie Kirk, an influential right-wing activist and a close ally of US President Donald Trump, was shot dead while speaking at an event at a university in Utah. Here is what we know.
What happened?
Kirk, 31, was speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem on 10 September 2025 as part of his 'American Comeback' tour, addressing a crowd of about 3,000.
During his speech, when queried about the number of transgender Americans who have been mass shooters, a shot was heard, seemingly fired from the roof of a nearby building.
Kirk was subsequently seen slumping in his chair with a visible neck wound as the crowd fled in chaos.
Suspect Investigation
As the search for the shooter intensifies, no one has been apprehended or identified yet. Authorities have described the suspect as appearing of 'college age' and blending in with the crowd.
Photos of a 'person of interest' have been released by the FBI, showing a man dressed in dark clothing. The crime scene has yielded significant forensic evidence, including a high-powered Mauser rifle discovered nearby.
Reaction and Implications
The tragedy has sparked outrage and grief across the political spectrum. Former President Trump expressed his devastation on social media, ordering flags to be flown at half-mast.
The event has reopened discussions about political violence in the US, highlighting deep ideological divisions. Experts report a significant increase in politically motivated attacks this year.
In light of the tragedy, advocacy groups and political leaders have called for reflections on the state of civility in political discourse.
