The Shooting of Charlie Kirk: A Deepening Political Divide

Sat Sep 13 2025 10:47:51 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Charlie Kirk, a prominent right-wing activist, was shot at a university event in Utah. The shooter remains at large, raising concerns about political violence in the US.

Charlie Kirk was shot on September 10, 2025, during an event at Utah Valley University. Despite immediate medical assistance, he succumbed to his injuries, sparking outrage and calls for justice. Authorities have identified a suspect but haven't made any arrests yet, causing unrest and raising questions about safety and political violence in the nation.

Charlie Kirk, an influential right-wing activist and a close ally of US President Donald Trump, was shot dead while speaking at an event at a university in Utah.

Here is what we know.

Kirk, 31, was speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem on 10 September, 2025, as part of his 'American Comeback' tour.

He sat under a white gazebo to take questions from a crowd of about 3,000 in the university's 'quad', an outdoor courtyard.

At about 12:20, he is asked by a member of the crowd: 'Do you know how many transgender Americans have been mass shooters over the last 10 years?'

He replies: 'Too many.'

Then a single shot is heard, which is believed to have been fired from the roof of the Losee Center, a building overlooking the quad. Kirk slumps in his chair with a clearly visible wound to his neck. The crowds around the tent then begin to flee, and screams can be heard.

No one has been caught so far - and authorities haven't named a suspect or their alleged motive.

But Utah's public safety commissioner said the gunman appeared to be of 'college age' and had blended in well with other students. Investigators have released photos of a person of interest and appealed for public help identifying the man pictured.

Officials say a high-powered firearm - an imported Mauser .30-06 bolt action rifle - was found in a wooded area after the shooting.

Governor Spencer Cox also released a video of what police believe is the suspect fleeing the scene.

The FBI also reported receiving a record number of tips regarding the shooting, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The shooting has ignited nationwide discussions around political violence in the USA, as it continues to escalate.

Many have expressed their grief and anger over Kirk’s death, highlighting the divide within American politics. Trump and Biden have both made statements calling for unity against violence, though tensions grow as accusations fly regarding who is to blame.

As investigations continue, the country remains on edge, grappling with the implications of such a tragic event and the ongoing climate of political hostility.