News Summary
A manhunt is underway at Utah Valley University after the shooting death of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist, during an event on campus. Eyewitness accounts describe the shooter firing from a rooftop and fleeing the scene. The FBI has offered a reward for information leading to the apprehension of the suspect, while classes were canceled in response to rising public concern over the incident. This shocking event has amplified discussions around political violence within academic settings and prompted responses from various political leaders.
Provo, Utah – Manhunt Underway Following Political Assassination of Activist Charlie Kirk
A manhunt is currently underway at Utah Valley University following the shooting death of Charlie Kirk, a conservative political activist and co-founder of the organization Turning Point USA. Kirk was shot on September 10, 2025, while addressing a crowd during an event called the “American Comeback Tour” in a university courtyard. The shooting, which occurred in broad daylight, has been characterized by officials as a political assassination.
Eyewitness accounts report that a single shot was fired from a rooftop where the shooter was positioned before escaping the scene. The suspect has yet to be identified and remains at large more than 24 hours after the incident. CCTV footage released by authorities shows an individual dressed in dark clothing, carrying a backpack, wearing a hat, and sporting sunglasses as they fled from the scene. The suspect was observed moving across the roof of one of the campus buildings before descending to the ground and vanishing into a nearby wooded area.
A high-powered bolt-action rifle, believed to have been used in the attack, was located concealed in a towel within the woods close to the incident site. In the ongoing investigation, officials discovered a palm print and shoe impression at the crime scene, which they hope will help in identifying the shooter. The FBI has announced a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the shooter, and over 7,000 tips have already flooded in from the public.
Responses from Authorities
During a press conference, the Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner detailed the suspect’s movements captured by the surveillance footage. Initially, two individuals were taken into custody for questioning but were later released after it was determined they were not connected to the shooting. Classes at Utah Valley University were promptly canceled, and the campus experienced a temporary evacuation in response to the incident, which raised significant public concern and scrutiny.
Context of the Event
Charlie Kirk was a notable figure within conservative circles, and the event he was attending had already stirred controversy. A petition circulated prior to the shooting called for barring his appearances on campus, receiving nearly 1,000 signatures. This highlighted the divisive political climate present within academic institutions.
The assassination drew bipartisan condemnation, with leaders from both political parties expressing shock and outrage over the incident. Videos of the shooting rapidly circulated on social media platforms, eliciting fear and disbelief among those present at the university. Kirk was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to a local hospital, prompting ripples of response from political figures, including former President Donald Trump, who characterized Kirk as a “martyr for truth and freedom.”
This tragic event underscores the rising concern around political violence in the United States, with Governor Spencer Cox labeling the shooting as a highly concerning escalation of these threats. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to come forward as they work to apprehend the suspect and ensure the safety of the public.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Students at UCF Mourn Assassination of Charlie Kirk
Tragedy Strikes at Utah Valley University During Speech
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Conservative Activist
Tragic Event at Utah Valley University: Activist Fatally Shot
U.S. Navy Deploys Destroyers Near Venezuela Amid Rising Tensions
Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman Released from ICU After Shooting Incident
Tragedy Strikes Minnesota After Targeted Shootings of Lawmakers
Assassination Attempt on Minnesota Lawmakers Raises Concerns
James Comey Faces Investigation Over Instagram Post
Luigi Mangione Maintains Not Guilty Plea in Assassination Case
Additional Resources
- The Guardian
- Wikipedia: Political Assassination
- WTOP
- Google Search: Charlie Kirk shooting
- AP News
- Google Scholar: Charlie Kirk assassination
- Politico
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Political violence
- Fox News
- Google News: Charlie Kirk assassination
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
