Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said, “At this point, there is no information that would lead us to believe that there is a second person involved”

In a shocking and rapidly unfolding event, right-wing commentator and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, 31, was shot on the campus of Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, during his American Comeback Tour.

Kirk, who was stationed at his signature “Prove Me Wrong” table engaging with students and supporters, became the target of a suspected assassination attempt that sent ripples through political and media circles nationwide.

Authorities confirmed that a person of interest was taken into custody but subsequently released following interrogation, leaving the investigation active and ongoing.

FBI Director Kash Patel announced the development during a press conference and via posts on X, formerly known as Twitter, stating that the individual believed to have fired the shots was initially apprehended but later released.

Patel emphasized that the investigation would continue and that information would be shared in the interest of transparency. “The subject in custody has been released after an interrogation by law enforcement,” Patel wrote.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox addressed the press, stating, “At this point, there is no information that would lead us to believe that there is a second person involved.”

He referred to the attack as a “political assassination,” highlighting the grave nature of the event and the potential political ramifications.

Authorities described the shooter as wearing dark clothing and tactical gear and firing from a building approximately 200 feet away from Kirk’s table.

According to eyewitness reports, the shooting occurred swiftly and without warning. Kirk, who frequently shares his campus engagements on social media, had posted photos and video from the Utah Valley University event on X just moments before the attack began.

Students and attendees at the event described hearing gunshots erupt suddenly, prompting chaos and panic across the campus. Some students reportedly jumped over tables to seek cover, while others called law enforcement immediately.

Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and media figure, founded Turning Point USA in 2012 with a mission to advocate for free-market principles and conservative values on college campuses.

Over the past decade, he has become a polarizing figure in American politics, known for his outspoken commentary, appearances at national political conventions, and high-profile campaign rallies.

He was seen at numerous events in 2024, including speaking at the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and at campaign rallies for former President Donald Trump.

His influence on young conservative activists has been substantial, making the attack particularly alarming to his supporters and the broader political community.

Family members and those close to Kirk were immediately alerted to the incident. He is survived by his wife, former Miss Arizona USA Erika Frantzve, and their two young children, a 3-year-old daughter and a 1-year-old son.

Friends and colleagues have expressed concern for his safety and called for swift justice. Kirk’s social media posts following the event emphasized resilience and continuity, with many noting his dedication to engaging with students despite threats to his safety.

Local law enforcement, in coordination with federal authorities, quickly secured the campus and began an intensive investigation.

Orem Police Chief Paul Isaacs confirmed that multiple agencies are participating in the probe and that evidence, including surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts, is being collected.

“We are treating this as an attempted political assassination,” Isaacs said. “Our priority is ensuring the safety of the campus community while pursuing all leads regarding the individual involved.”

The release of the person of interest after questioning has raised questions about the strength of the evidence linking the individual to the shooting and the complexities of proving motive and intent.

Political analysts suggest that the nature of the attack, occurring during a highly publicized campus tour and targeting a well-known political figure, elevates concerns about the security of public figures, particularly those engaged in political activism on college campuses.

The event has drawn responses from political leaders and public figures across the spectrum.

Some have condemned the act unequivocally, emphasizing the dangers of political violence in the United States, while others have called for calm and patience until law enforcement concludes the investigation.

The attack on Kirk, who has consistently been in the public eye advocating for conservative policies and engaging in national political discourse, underscores the increasing risks faced by public figures in highly polarized environments.

Authorities continue to investigate the timeline of events, the method of attack, and potential motives behind the shooting. Additional security measures have reportedly been implemented at campuses and public events where Kirk is scheduled to appear.

Law enforcement officials have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward and have promised that tips will be treated with urgency and confidentiality.

While the person of interest has been released, the incident remains under active investigation by the FBI and local authorities.

The political and social implications of the attack are significant, as it highlights vulnerabilities in security for high-profile figures and raises broader questions about the intersection of political activism, campus events, and public safety.

Analysts are also closely monitoring social media and public commentary for additional insights that could inform the ongoing investigation.

Charlie Kirk’s long-standing prominence in American politics, particularly among young conservative activists, means that the attack has reverberated well beyond Utah.

Media coverage has been extensive, with national outlets providing updates throughout the day, highlighting the danger of politically motivated violence, and emphasizing the need for thorough investigative work.

As investigators continue to piece together evidence, law enforcement officials are urging caution in drawing conclusions, stressing the importance of due process and careful analysis.

The incident has also prompted a wider discussion about the responsibilities of universities and public venues in ensuring the safety of speakers, students, and attendees.

Utah Valley University officials have pledged full cooperation with law enforcement and have called for calm and vigilance among students and staff.

“Our priority is the safety and well-being of everyone on campus,” a university spokesperson said. “We are coordinating closely with authorities to provide information and resources as needed.”

As the investigation unfolds, the nation watches closely, weighing the impact of political violence against public figures and the broader implications for civic discourse.

The attack on Charlie Kirk, a prominent voice in American conservative politics, serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers faced by those in the public eye and the critical importance of swift, transparent investigative work to maintain public trust and ensure justice.