Charlie Kirk Critically Injured by Projectile During Utah Speech Trump and Others React
UPDATE — 9/10/25, 4:45 p.m. ET: A significant voice, Charlie Kirk, aged 31, has tragically passed away, as confirmed by CNN.
President Donald Trump conveyed his feelings regarding the news of Kirk's passing on his social media platform, Truth Social.
“The truly exceptional, even iconic, Charlie Kirk, has departed,” Trump penned. “His unique grasp and profound connection to the youthful spirit across America were unparalleled. Universally cherished, particularly by myself, he is now gone. Melania and I extend our deepest condolences to his elegant wife, Erika, and their loved ones. Charlie, you are loved!”
Original story below:
Earlier, a public engagement at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, took a startling turn when conservative voice Charlie Kirk was struck by a projectile during his address.
Following the incident, Kirk was swiftly transported to a nearby medical facility, where his condition was described by a law enforcement representative to The Associated Press as "critical," reflecting the extreme gravity of the situation.
The 31-year-old, engaging in a dialogue with students, reportedly sustained an injury to the neck on Wednesday, September 10, an event captured and disseminated through social media visuals.
“A solitary projectile was discharged on campus in the direction of a guest speaker. Law enforcement is currently investigating, with a suspect detained,” an initial campus notification from the university conveyed.
However, this initial communication was later determined to be inaccurate.
"The individual in question remains at large," Utah Valley University spokesperson Scott Trotter stated in a subsequent clarification. "Police investigations are continuing. The campus will remain inaccessible for the remainder of the day," effectively bringing a halt to all activities.
The gathering on Wednesday was orchestrated by Turning Point USA, the organization Kirk notably co-established in 2012.
“This remains a developing situation. We can verify that Charlie Kirk has been injured by gunfire. He is receiving medical attention, and our thoughts are with him during this critical period,” Aubrey Laitsch, public relations manager for Turning Point USA, issued in a formal statement.
The precise nature of Kirk’s current condition remains undisclosed.
CNN reported that the projectile originated from a campus structure positioned approximately 200 yards from Kirk's speaking location, adding a layer of spatial context to the incident.
President Donald Trump promptly addressed the news of Kirk's injury via his favored digital platform, Truth Social.
“We must collectively offer prayers for Charlie Kirk, who has been wounded,” the 79-year-old leader's message urged. “A gentleman of impeccable character. GOD BLESS HIM!”
Former United States Representative Jason Chaffetz, a Republican who previously served Utah's constituency from 2009 to 2017, was present and witnessed the unfolding event.
“The attendance was significant, a sizable gathering,” Chaffetz, 58, described the vibrant atmosphere to Fox News in a post-incident telephone interview. “He made his entrance, engaging the audience by distributing hats and energizing the collective mood.”
According to Chaffetz, Kirk first addressed a “spiritual inquiry,” followed by questions concerning “transgender-related incidents” and “widespread acts of violence.”
“As that moment unfolded, as that question arose, and he was poised for interaction, a single projectile discharged,” Chaffetz recounted the dramatic shift. “My gaze was fixed on Charlie. While I cannot confirm witnessing blood or the direct impact, I distinctly observed him collapsing instantaneously backward and to his left.”
He further elaborated on the immediate chaos: “The instant the projectile was discharged, everyone instinctively ducked, and a surge of dispersal, shouts, and screams ensued, as one would anticipate. My focus instantly shifted from observing Charlie Kirk to ensuring the safety of our daughter and son-in-law.”
