Witnesses were nearby when Charlie Kirk was seriously injured during a college event, and two men have since been mistakenly detained as the individual responsible remains unidentified.Charlie Kirk, 31, was critically injured shortly after 12:20 p.m. on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, while speaking at Utah Valley University. He was taken to a nearby hospital for emergency care but later passed away.
Turning Point USA, the conservative organization founded by Kirk, confirmed his passing in a message to employees and supporters, expressing their deep sorrow and honoring his legacy.Authorities believe the incident occurred from a distance, possibly from a rooftop near the event area. The investigation remains active, and officials have not yet located the person responsible.Two individuals were wrongly detained during the early stages of the investigation.
The first came forward claiming involvement, but authorities quickly confirmed he was not connected to the incident. The second was taken into custody based on video footage but was later released after questioning. FBI Director Kash Patel stated that the investigation is ongoing and updates will continue to be provided to the public.
The mother of the second individual told The New York Post that her son had been a supporter of Kirk and was attending as a student. She described him as deeply shaken by the experience.The event caused widespread panic on campus, with students seeking shelter in nearby buildings. Many called loved ones while waiting for official updates. Witnesses described a confusing and frightening scene, with some initially mistaking the sound for fireworks.
Some attendees later raised concerns about the level of security, noting that there were no bag checks or metal detectors at the entrance and that the event was held in a busy part of campus.Charlie Kirk was well known for his efforts to engage young voters and promote open dialogue through Turning Point USA. Many attendees remembered him as someone who encouraged discussion even when people disagreed.As of Thursday, September 11, authorities continue to search for the person responsible while the community mourns the loss of a prominent public figure.