Charlie Kirk Fatally Shot at Utah Event; Journalist Boner and Crystallographer Drits Also Die

Lead: Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on September 10, 2025; French journalist Christian Boner and crystallographer Victor Drits also died.

Nut Graf: Kirk’s assassination underscores rising political violence in the United States and has provoked bipartisan condemnation. The deaths of Boner and Drits mark significant losses in international journalism and mineralogy, respectively.

Charlie Kirk Shot Dead in Utah

Charlie Kirk, 31, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was speaking at Utah Valley University’s outdoor “Prove Me Wrong” debate when a single shot struck him shortly after noon. He was rushed away by security but succumbed to his injuries later that day. Utah authorities have launched a manhunt for the shooter, and the FBI is leading the investigation. President Donald Trump ordered flags flown at half-staff through Sunday in Kirk’s honor and called his death a “political assassination”.

Other Notable Deaths on September 10, 2025

Christian Boner, 77: Renowned French journalist known for his political commentary and investigative reporting.
Victor Drits, 92: Distinguished Russian mineralogist and crystallographer celebrated for contributions to structural geology.
Agnessa Peterson, 89: Estonian-born Russian actress featured in the classic film There Was an Old Couple.

Additional Losses

Ellen Sue Krieger, 77: Beloved community member of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa.
Geraldine Marie Meier, 85: Longtime Bay City resident and matriarch cherished by her family.
Joy E. Pettenger, 77: Fulton, Illinois native who passed peacefully at home.
Virginia Ellen Schmitt, 90: Retired Wisconsin educator with a 51-year teaching career.
Diane Chesson Allen, 65: Camden, North Carolina resident and cultural contributor.

All who died on September 10, 2025, leave behind legacies in politics, science, journalism, arts and community life. The most profound impact has been felt by the violent loss of Charlie Kirk, which has ignited urgent calls to end political violence in America.