Charlie Kirk assassinated at 31 in Utah political attack

Charlie Kirk, a prominent American conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was tragically assassinated on September 10, 2025, at the age of 31, sending shockwaves through the United States and reigniting debates over political violence and free speech. Kirk was fatally shot in the neck during a live debate at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, while hosting his American Comeback Tour, an event attended by nearly 3,000 supporters.

The attack, described by Utah Governor Spencer Cox and President Donald Trump as a political assassination, occurred moments after Kirk addressed a question on gun violence, with footage capturing the chaos as a long-range shot struck him. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead that afternoon.

The FBI has launched a massive manhunt for the shooter, with early reports suggesting a deliberate, professional act, though no suspect has been apprehended.

Who was Charlie Kirk?

Kirk, born October 14, 1993, in Arlington Heights, Illinois, rose to prominence as a conservative firebrand at 18, co-founding Turning Point USA in 2012 to promote free-market values on college campuses. His media presence, through The Charlie Kirk Show and frequent Fox News appearances, made him a millennial icon for the Republican base, particularly as a staunch ally of Trump.

His outspoken views on abortion, gun rights, and election integrity drew both fierce loyalty and sharp criticism, with detractors accusing him of spreading misinformation on issues like COVID-19 vaccines and the 2020 election.

President Trump’s stance

President Trump mourned Kirk as a “legendary patriot,” urging Americans to uphold values of free speech and the rule of law. Kirk’s personal life, including his 2021 marriage to Erika Frantzve and their two children, reflected his evangelical faith, which increasingly shaped his advocacy.

His death has intensified national divisions, with conservatives hailing his legacy as a truth-seeker, while critics reflect on his polarizing rhetoric. As investigations continue, Kirk’s assassination marks a dark moment, underscoring the volatile intersection of politics and public discourse in America.