Crime
Charlie Kirk has died, shooting suspect still at large
OREM, Utah — Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz has confirmed that Charlie Kirk, founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, has died following a shooting at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
The incident unfolded during a speaking engagement on campus, where a single round was fired, striking Kirk as he addressed attendees.
Emergency responders rushed to provide aid before transporting him to a nearby hospital, but he later succumbed to his injuries.
Initial reports regarding the suspect’s status created confusion. Utah Valley University spokesperson Scott Trotter clarified late Wednesday that no suspect is currently in custody, despite earlier announcements.
“We can confirm that Mr. Kirk was shot, but we don’t know his condition. The suspect is not in custody. Police are still investigating. Campus is closed for the rest of the day,” Trotter initially stated before confirmation of Kirk’s death was made public.
Authorities initially detained an older man, identified as George Hodgson Zin of Payson, Utah, after videos circulated online showing him being handcuffed.
However, officials later confirmed that Zin was not responsible for the shooting and has since been cleared of involvement.
As of now, police have not released the name of the actual shooter or provided a motive for the attack.
Investigators from local law enforcement, with federal assistance, are reviewing surveillance footage, conducting witness interviews, and processing evidence from the scene.
The incident sent shockwaves through the university community and across the nation. Videos shared online captured the chaos as students and attendees rushed for safety, while law enforcement and campus security flooded the scene.
The shooting has already drawn widespread national reaction. Utah Senator Mike Lee wrote on social media: “I am tracking the situation at Utah Valley University closely. Please join me in praying for Charlie Kirk and the students gathered there.”
Vice President JD Vance also posted a statement on X: “Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father.”
University officials confirmed that the campus will remain closed until further notice as the investigation continues. Authorities emphasized that there is no indication of an ongoing threat to the public.
Kirk, 30, was a nationally known conservative commentator and activist, widely recognized for founding Turning Point USA, a youth organization promoting conservative values on college campuses across the United States.
Further details, including information about the suspect and the ongoing investigation, are expected to be released in the coming days.
SPENCER, OKLAHOMA — Authorities have confirmed that a 17-year-old student was shot and killed Wednesday afternoon following a violent altercation near Star Spencer High School in Spencer, Oklahoma.
According to the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded shortly after an altercation broke out among a group of juveniles near the intersection of Northeast 34th Street and Spencer Road.
During the confrontation, one of the individuals reportedly produced a firearm and opened fire, striking a male teenager.
Emergency personnel transported the victim to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The victim was later identified by Oklahoma City Public Schools officials as 17-year-old Sebastian Guyton, a student at Star Spencer High School.
Following the shooting, law enforcement initiated a search of the area. One suspect was taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit, though authorities have not yet released additional details regarding the individual’s identity or potential charges.
As a precaution, several nearby schools were placed on temporary lockdown while officers secured the area.
Classes at Star Spencer High School have been canceled for the remainder of the week in light of the tragedy.
In a statement released Wednesday, Star Spencer High School officials expressed deep sorrow over the loss of their student:
“Please help keep our Bobcat family and friends in your thoughts during this very difficult time,” the statement read.
The Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shooting.
Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.