Right-wing American influencer Charlie Kirk has been shot as he reportedly spoke during an event at Utah Valley University.
Mr Kirk had been talking for about 20 minutes during a presentation in Orem when witnesses heard shots fired from a nearby building, a university spokesperson told Sky’s US partner NBC News.
Videos on social media show the well-known supporter of Donald Trump speaking into a microphone while sitting under a white tent with the slogans “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong”.
A single shot is heard and Mr Kirk can be seen reaching up with his right hand as blood comes out from the left side of his neck and he then falls off his chair.
President Trump has asked people to pray for the 31-year-old conservative activist.
The father-of-two is the chief executive and co-founder of Turning Point USA, a prominent organisation that engages conservative youth on school campuses.
“He is in the hospital, and we are praying for him at this time,” a spokesperson for Turning Point USA said.
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The university has said a suspect is in custody.
Mr Kirk and Turning Point USA played a key role in driving youth support for Mr Trump in November’s presidential election. His events at college campuses nationwide typically draw large crowds.
President Trump has commented, saying: “We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom.”
The FBI is closely monitoring reports of a shooting involving Mr Kirk, according to FBI director Kash Patel.
“Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected,” Mr Patel wrote in a post on X. “Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation.”
Vice President JD Vance responded to reports that Kirk was shot, encouraging others to “say a prayer” for the right-wing activist in a post on X.
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