By Michael Hernandez
WASHINGTON (AA) - Conservative American political commentator Charlie Kirk was shot during a university event in the Western state of Utah on Wednesday, according to officials and bystander video.
FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau is "closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting involving Charlie Kirk."
"Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation," Patel wrote on American social media company X.
Bystander footage posted on social media appears to depict Kirk sitting under a canopy as he addressed hundreds of assembled students at Utah Valley University when sounds like a gunshot rang out as Kirk recoiled and students began fleeing en masse.
Utah Valley University did not respond to multiple calls and emails seeking comment. It is unclear if a suspect has been apprehended.