President Donald Trump announced early Friday that authorities have detained a suspect in connection with the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The news comes just two days after Kirk was fatally shot during an outdoor event at Utah Valley University, sparking strong reactions nationwide and intensifying debates over rising political violence in the United States.
President Donald Trump confirmed the arrest of a suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Learn details of the incident, investigation, Trump’s response, and nationwide reactions to the political violence.
The Tragic Event
Charlie Kirk, 31, founder of Turning Point USA and a prominent Trump ally, was killed on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, in Orem, Utah. He had been taking part in his organization’s “American Comeback Tour,” engaging students in a live “Prove Me Wrong” debate when a single gunshot rang out shortly after noon.
Law enforcement confirmed that the shooting was intentional, with the assailant positioned on the roof of a building roughly 200 yards from the event site. A high-powered bolt-action rifle, believed to have been the weapon used, was later recovered in a wooded area near campus. The incident prompted an immediate lockdown and evacuation of Utah Valley University, though no other injuries were reported.
Kirk, known for his vocal advocacy on conservative causes such as free speech and civic engagement among youth, leaves behind his wife Erika and their two children. Tributes poured in across party lines, with political leaders condemning the act as another disturbing sign of growing political polarization.
The Manhunt and Arrest
In the wake of the killing, a nationwide manhunt was launched with the FBI and local authorities leading the search. On September 11, 2025, the FBI released enhanced video footage and photographs of a person of interest: a college-aged male wearing a black hat, sunglasses, and a black shirt with an American flag design, seen fleeing the scene. A $100,000 reward was offered for information leading to his arrest.
Just one day later, on September 12, 2025, Trump confirmed during a live interview on Fox & Friends that a suspect had been taken into custody. “With a high degree of certainty, we have him in custody,” the president said, noting that the individual had reportedly been turned in by someone “very close” to him. Trump voiced support for the death penalty if the suspect is convicted, stressing that he had only learned of the arrest moments before going on air.
Federal authorities have not yet disclosed the suspect’s identity or background. Utah Governor Spencer Cox pledged that the state would pursue capital punishment once formal charges are brought.
Trump’s Response and Broader Implications
Trump was the first to publicly share news of Kirk’s death, posting on Truth Social where he called him a “true patriot” and praised his influence among young conservatives. In subsequent remarks, Trump blamed what he called “radical left rhetoric” for fueling an environment of hostility, comparing the tragedy to the July 2024 assassination attempt on his life in Butler, Pennsylvania, and citing other recent acts of political violence.
From the Oval Office, Trump denounced the “demonization” of political opponents and vowed to take action against organizations that support or enable extremist violence. He urged Americans to reject vilification and recommit to peaceful dialogue, noting that Kirk himself was an advocate for civil debate and nonviolent engagement.
Vice President JD Vance met privately with Kirk’s family on Thursday before accompanying his casket aboard Air Force Two to Phoenix, Arizona, where Turning Point USA is based. Trump has indicated that he intends to attend Kirk’s funeral, expected to take place the following weekend.
Ongoing Investigation and National Reaction
Investigators continue piecing together the suspect’s movements, from his arrival on campus and climb to the rooftop to his escape into nearby neighborhoods. Authorities credit digital forensics, surveillance footage, and public tips with leading to the quick capture, praising the cooperation of the community.
Kirk’s killing has reignited heated national conversations about political extremism, gun violence, and the security of public figures. Conservative supporters have described him as a “martyr for truth,” while bipartisan voices have condemned the shooting and stressed the urgency of addressing radicalization and hate-driven attacks.
While the arrest brings a measure of closure, questions remain about the suspect’s motives, possible accomplices, and whether online or ideological influences played a role. Officials are expected to release further details as the investigation advances and legal proceedings begin.
