Introduction
Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA and one of America’s most prominent conservative activists, was shot during an event at Utah Valley University (UVU) on September 10, 2025. The shocking incident has raised nationwide concerns about political violence, campus security, and free speech in the United States.
This article provides a clear timeline of events, eyewitness reports, and the latest information from authorities.
Who is Charlie Kirk?
Before diving into the timeline, it’s important to understand who Kirk was. Born in 1993, Charlie Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA (TPUSA) in 2012, an organization dedicated to promoting conservative values among young Americans.
Kirk quickly became a national figure through media appearances, debates, and his podcast The Charlie Kirk Show. He was both admired by supporters for his unapologetic defense of conservatism and criticized by opponents for his controversial positions.
Timeline of the Shooting
1. The Event Setup
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Date: September 10, 2025
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Location: Utah Valley University, Orem, Utah
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Occasion: “American Comeback Tour” with TPUSA, featuring Kirk’s well-known “Prove Me Wrong” table debate format.
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Audience: Hundreds of students and guests gathered at the UVU campus courtyard.
2. The Shooting
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Just as Kirk began his remarks, a shot was fired from a distance.
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Witnesses reported chaos as students rushed for cover.
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Campus police confirmed that the shooter was positioned on a rooftop overlooking the courtyard.
3. Immediate Response
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Law enforcement evacuated attendees and secured the scene.
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Kirk was rushed to a nearby hospital.
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Utah Governor Spencer Cox described the incident as a “political assassination attempt.”
4. Investigation Updates
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The FBI, Utah State Police, and local authorities are leading a multi-agency investigation.
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A high-powered rifle was recovered near the site.
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A “person of interest” was captured on surveillance footage leaving the area, and authorities are urging the public to submit tips.
Eyewitness Reports
Eyewitnesses described the scene as “unreal” and “terrifying.” One student told CBS News that the crowd first thought it was a prank or loud noise before realizing it was gunfire.
Another witness said:
“Everything happened so fast. People were screaming and running in every direction. It felt like a nightmare.”
Public and Political Reactions
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Governor Spencer Cox called it a “cowardly act of political violence.”
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President Donald Trump condemned the shooting, saying it was “an attack on free speech.”
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Members of both Republican and Democratic parties expressed concern about the rise of politically motivated violence.
What’s Next?
At the time of writing:
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Law enforcement is still searching for the shooter.
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Kirk’s medical condition remains critical, according to hospital reports.
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Turning Point USA has suspended upcoming events until further notice.
Conclusion
The Utah Valley University shooting of Charlie Kirk has left the nation stunned. Whether one admired or disagreed with him, this attack highlights the dangerous reality of political violence in America.
As investigations continue, the country awaits answers: Who was behind this shooting, and why?