OREM, Utah — In the wake of Wednesday's deadly shooting on campus, Utah Valley University says it will be closed for the rest of the week.
Charlie Kirk, a conservative political commentator and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot approximately 20 minutes into his speaking event on campus. He was later pronounced dead.
UVU immediately canceled classes, closed down the campus, and told those already there to shelter in place. One person was initially taken into custody, then released. Later Wednesday afternoon, officials announced that they had arrested another suspect — however, around 6 p.m., FBI Director Kash Patel announced that this suspect was released after being interrogated.
The school announced on its website that the campus will remain closed until Monday (Sept. 15).
"We are shocked by the tragic events today," the notice read. "Our hearts go out to [Kirk's] family."
A letter from UVU President Astrid Tuminez and other administrators said the extended closure is to allow for grieving, as well as the fact that it's still an open investigation.
The closure includes the cancellation of all classes (in-person and virtual), campus events and administrative operations. The university said assignment deadlines and exams will be delayed to accommodate the closure. They encouraged faculty to communicate with their students in the meantime about the expectations.
Also, UVU said all employees will receive their "regular compensation" during the closure — both full-time and part-time.
Wednesday's home soccer game was canceled, with no plans to reschedule it.
