Charlie Kirk, the co-creator of Turning Point USA and a debater, was fatally shot during one of his events at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10, 2025. A suspect has been apprehended and charged with multiple formal charges. The aftermath of the event has created tension and conflict between people.
Announced by TPUSA on Aug. 27, 2025, “The American Comeback Tour” is a series of events coordinated by the organization that initially started Feb. 2025. Formatted as a “prove me wrong” style debate, Utah Valley University was chosen to be the first stop on the tour. Kirk was scheduled to speak on Sept. 10, with an estimated crowd of 3,000 in attendance. The shooting occurred that day at 12:23 p.m. MDT.
The shot was believed to have been taken from a rooftop, in a building near where Kirk was speaking. After being shot, he was rushed to Timpanogos Regional Hospital in critical condition. He was later pronounced dead at the age of 31. The suspect was arrested 33 hours following the shooting.
The suspect is 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson. He was arrested on Sept. 11 in Washington County, Utah. He was charged with multiple crimes that include:
- Aggravated murder.
- Felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury.
- Two counts of obstruction of justice.
- Two counts of witness tampering.
- Commission of a violent offense in the presence of a child
According to prosecutors, Robinson stated the motive behind the murder was that Kirk “spread too much hate.” Prosecutors have stated that they will be asking for death penalty in this case.
Authorities have stated that there is substantial evidence linking Robinson to the crime. Robinson has been appointed a defense attorney by the name of Kathryn Nester.
As a result of Kirk’s death, many campuses have upped their security. Universities are reviewing their emergency protocols when it comes to high-profile speakers and events on campus.
On Sept. 21, a large memorial for Kirk was held at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. It is estimated that more than 90 thousand people were present.
In the days and weeks following the death of Kirk, tensions have risen, and confrontations have happened. Conspiracy theories and debates on gun control have risen due to Kirk’s firm belief that there should be less strict gun laws. This event has caused division as well as discourse amongst people and communities.
