Charlie Kirk Assassinated at Utah Valley University; Maps Show Possible Shooter’s Viewpoint

Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old conservative influencer and founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot during a question-and-answer session at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday.

Kirk was struck in the neck by a single gunshot, collapsed on stage, and was rushed to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The incident has sparked grief from supporters and outrage over security lapses, while others have controversially celebrated his death—fueling debates about rising political violence in the United States.

Authorities have yet to confirm the identity or motive of the shooter. However, Newsweek released maps and satellite images indicating Kirk’s location and a possible vantage point from the rooftop of the university’s Losee Center. Experts noted this may have been where the gunman fired from, though this has not been verified.

Former FBI Agent Stuart Kaplan told Fox News the attack had the hallmarks of a professional hit, stating: “This assassination… was a very well planned, very well orchestrated plot that was put in motion days before.” He added the shooter appeared to have an escape strategy, making detection difficult.

Michael Balboni, a former New York State Senator and Homeland Security adviser, echoed this, explaining that a single accurate shot from long range, followed by a clean escape, strongly suggested a trained individual.

President Donald Trump paid tribute on Truth Social, writing: “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead… Charlie, we love you!” Meanwhile, Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin condemned the killing as “yet another horrific act of targeted political violence.”

Federal authorities are leading the investigation, but so far, no suspects remain in custody. Utah Valley University has announced it will remain closed until September 14. Kirk is survived by his wife, Erika, and their two children.