UTAH, USA - Conservative political commentator Charlie Kirk has been shot dead.
Kirk, a close ally of US President Donald Trump, had been attending a campus event at Utah Valley University.
The outspoken podcaster had just finished answering a question about transgender mass shooters when a shot rang out.
The 31-year-old was struck on the neck, and was rushed to hospital. He later succumbed to his injuries.
Utah Valley University confirmed the incident on its social media pages, and cancelled all classes until further notice.
"UVU campus is closed. Classes cancelled. Those on campus, secure in place until police officers can escort you safely off campus," the university posted on its X account.
Today at about 12:10 a shot was fired at the visiting speaker, Charlie Kirk. He was hit and taken from the location by his security. Campus police is investigating, a suspect is in custody.
— UVU (@UVU) September 10, 2025
US Vice President, JD Vance had shared his concerns following the attack by a sharing a photo with Kirk.
Dear God, protect Charlie in his darkest hour. pic.twitter.com/RqNYfHLs2b
— JD Vance (@JDVance) September 10, 2025
Initial reports had indicated that a suspected had been apprehended but those remain to be confirmed by officials. The motive for the attack is currently unknown at the moment.