Crime
Unidentified Person Seen on Rooftop Before Charlie Kirk Shooting at Utah Valley University, Suspect Remains 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 occurred during a speaking engagement on campus, where a single round was fired, striking Kirk as he addressed attendees.
Emergency personnel provided immediate aid before transporting him to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Law enforcement sources revealed that, shortly before the gunfire, an unidentified individual was spotted on a rooftop near the venue.
Authorities are investigating whether that person is connected to the shooting.
As of now, the suspect remains at large.
Confusion initially surrounded the case. Utah Valley University spokesperson Scott Trotter clarified late Wednesday that earlier reports of an arrest were incorrect.
“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 said in a preliminary statement, issued prior to confirmation of Kirk’s death.
At one point, authorities detained an older man, identified as George Hodgson Zin, after video showed him being handcuffed.
However, officials later confirmed he was not involved in the attack and has since been cleared.
Investigators have not yet released the identity of the actual shooter or a possible motive.
Local and federal agencies are working together to analyze surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and review evidence from the scene, including reports of the rooftop sighting.
The attack triggered widespread panic across the university.
Viral video clips captured the chaotic aftermath, with attendees scrambling for safety as campus security and police responded in force.
The shooting has drawn significant national attention. Utah Senator Mike Lee posted 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 issued a statement on X: “Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father.”
University officials have announced that the campus will remain closed until further notice while the investigation continues.
Law enforcement has urged the public to remain vigilant but emphasized that, at present, there is no indication of an ongoing immediate threat.
Charlie Kirk, 30, was widely known as a conservative commentator and activist, most recognized for founding Turning Point USA, an organization dedicated to promoting conservative values among young Americans on college campuses nationwide.
Authorities have stated that additional information regarding the suspect and the ongoing investigation will be released in the coming days.
OWINGS MILLS, Md. (Baltimore County) — Authorities are investigating a multiple-victim stabbing that left two people critically injured in Owings Mills.
According to preliminary information, Baltimore County Police and emergency medical personnel responded to the 12300 block of Greenspring Avenue following reports of a stabbing.
Upon arrival, first responders located two victims suffering from severe stab wounds, both classified as priority-one patients.
Emergency crews requested a medical helicopter due to the seriousness of the injuries.
A landing zone was established at Ridge Road and Greenspring Avenue.
One victim was transported by medevac, while the second victim was transported by ground ambulance to a nearby trauma center.
Initial reports indicate that the caller may have stabbed both of his parents.
Police confirmed that a possible suspect has been detained at the scene.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims or the suspect.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.