"Person of interest" in Charlie Kirk Utah Valley University shooting taken into custody

Authorities say a person of interest is in custody after conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a speaking event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday(September 10).

FBI Director Kash Patel said on X that “the subject for the horrific shooting today that took the life of Charlie Kirk is now in custody.” Patel praised local and state authorities for their “partnership” and added that federal officials will share updates when possible.




Kirk, 31, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was addressing a crowd under a tent during his American Comeback tour when a gunshot struck him in the neck. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but later died.

Authorities said the shot appeared to come from a building roughly 200 yards away. An older man wearing a blue shirt was initially detained but later released after questioning. Officials have not yet released the identity of the person now in custody or confirmed any charges.

News of the shooting and arrest has prompted widespread reaction. President Donald Trump, who often praised Kirk as a key force in mobilizing young conservatives, called him “great, and even legendary” in a Truth Social post. “He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me,” Trump wrote, offering condolences to Kirk’s family.

Vice President JD Vance also urged prayers for Kirk, calling him “a genuinely good guy and a young father.”

Kirk founded Turning Point USA in 2012, expanding it into one of the largest student groups in the country, with representation on more than 2,000 campuses and hundreds of thousands of members. He also hosted The Charlie Kirk Show and frequently appeared on Fox News and other outlets.

Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and ATF, are continuing to investigate the motive and circumstances of the attack. Officials stressed that the situation remains fluid and urged the public to await confirmed updates.