Editor’s note: NewsNation is continuing its coverage of Charlie Kirk’s assassination and the manhunt for the shooter. There have been significant updates in this story. Click here to read.
(NewsNation) — Police continue to search for the gunman who fatally shot conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a university in Utah. Two people were initially detained for questioning but were later released.
Utah law enforcement believes the shooter fired one shot from a rooftop Wednesday, then jumped down and ran into a nearby neighborhood. The gunman has not yet been identified or caught.
Robert Bohls, special agent in charge of the FBI in Salt Lake City, said the shooter appeared to be of “college age” and likely blended in on the university campus. “I can tell you this was a targeted event,” he said.
Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was killed while speaking at Utah Valley University. He was hit by a single rifle round fired from a rooftop roughly 200 yards away, sending 3,000 attendees scrambling for cover. Security rushed him to a hospital, where he later died.
Suspect in custody: FBI
FBI Director Kash Patel released a statement saying: “The subject for the horrific shooting today that took the life of Charlie Kirk is now in custody. Thank you to the local and state authorities in Utah for your partnership with @fbi. We will provide updates when able.”
‘Targeted attack’ on Charlie Kirk
Commissioner Mason added it was a “targeted attack” on Kirk, who became famous across the world for his debates with college students on campuses across America
Suspect still at large
Commissioner Beau Mason, of the Utah Department of Public Safety, is speaking now. He said the suspect is still at large.
Witness says some cheered Charlie Kirk shooting
The witness told NewsNation local affiliate KTVX he was 10 to 15 feet away from Kirk when he was fatally shot.
Turning Point confirms Charlie Kirk’s death
The organization asked for privacy for Kirk’s family.
Utah governor orders flags flown at half-staff
“I have ordered the flags of the United States of America and the great state of Utah to be flown at half-staff on all state facilities in recognition of the tragic passing of Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed this afternoon while speaking at Utah Valley University. Flags should be lowered to the half-staff position and remain in the half-staff position until sunset on Sunday, September 14th, 2025. I extend this invitation to all private citizens, businesses, and other organizations to participate,” said Gov. Spencer Cox.
Speaker Johnson responds to shooting of Charlie Kirk
“Utterly devastating. Charlie was a close friend and confidant. He will be sorely missed by so many. Every political leader must loudly and clearly decry this violence. Our prayers go out to his wife and young children. May he rest in peace,” Speaker Mike Johnson said.
Obama responds to death of Charlie Kirk
“We don’t yet know what motivated the person who shot and killed Charlie Kirk, but this kind of despicable violence has no place in our democracy. Michelle and I will be praying for Charlie’s family tonight, especially his wife Erika and their two young children,” Obama said.
Flags to be flown at half-staff
“In honor of Charlie Kirk, a truly Great American Patriot, I am ordering all American Flags throughout the United States lowered to Half Mast until Sunday evening at 6 P.M.,” President Trump said.
Biden responds to death of Charlie Kirk
“There is no place in our country for this kind of violence. It must end now. Jill and I are praying for Charlie Kirk’s family and loved ones,” the former president said.
Is political violence the new normal?
Paul Rieckhoff, the host of the “Independent Americans” podcast, told NewsNation that with Kirk’s shooting, political violence is seemingly becoming a “new normal” in American politics.
City of Orem involved in investigation
The city of Orem issued a statement saying Utah Valley University is leading the investigation with support from the city.
Those in the area are not being advised to shelter in place at this time but are encouraged to report anything suspicious to police.
Suspect at large
The university initially said a suspect was in custody but now says the person detained is not believed to be the shooter, and the suspect is still at large.
University campus closed
The Utah Valley University campus has been closed while police investigate.
Those on campus are asked to leave immediately and follow all police instructions.
Kirk has 2 children
Kirk is married with two children, a daughter aged 3 and a son who turned 1 in May.
Kirk known for debating college students
Kirk, 31, is a conservative political activist and media personality who is best known for debating college students.
He is also the co-founder of Turning Point USA.
Suspect in custody
According to a statement from the university, one shot was fired, and the suspect is in custody.
Kirk was taken from the event by his own security.
Trump officials share prayers for Kirk
“They just shot Charlie Kirk. A married young man and father, who stands on college campuses and encourages young people to get married, have children, stop abortion, and simply live a life for God. I’m praying that he survives. And I’m praying that this country rises up and ends this,” said Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene
“Please join us in praying for our good friend, Charlie Kirk,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson.
“An incredible Christian, American, and human being. May the healing hand of Jesus Christ be upon him,” said Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
“Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father,” said Vice President JD Vance.
FBI and ATF on scene
Attorney General Pam Bondi said ATF and the FBI are on the scene following the shooting.
Trump responds to shooting
“We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!” the president said
Kash Patel on Charlie Kirk shooting
FBI Director Kash Patel said the agency is monitoring the reports.