Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, 31, was killed on Wednesday in a shocking campus shooting. He was speaking to a crowd of around 3,000 people at Utah Valley University (UVU) when a single gunshot ended his life.
What Happened?
The event took place in UVU’s outdoor quad, where Kirk was seated under a white gazebo. Witnesses say he was answering a question on gun violence just before the attack.
At about 12:20 p.m., a loud bang was heard. Videos from the scene show Kirk clutching his neck before collapsing. Panic followed as students and guests ran for safety.
Investigation
Officials are treating the case as an assassination. Police believe the shooter fired from the roof of UVU’s Losee Center, about 130 meters from where Kirk was seated.
Authorities say the suspect wore dark clothing. A massive manhunt is underway, with the campus locked down and armed police searching buildings. Two people were arrested early on but later released with no ties to the attack.
Who Was Charlie Kirk?
Kirk was a prominent conservative voice and founder of Turning Point USA, a group that promotes right-wing ideas on U.S. campuses.
He often held open-air debates, challenging students on issues like gun rights, climate change, and faith. Kirk was also close to President Donald Trump and frequently visited the White House.
Reaction
The news has drawn shock and grief across the political spectrum.
President Trump called Kirk “a great and legendary leader” and ordered U.S. flags flown at half-mast. Former Presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama condemned the shooting. Leaders from the UK, Italy, and Argentina also expressed sorrow, calling the act a blow to democracy.
A Growing Threat
Experts warn that the U.S. is facing a sharp rise in political violence. More than 150 politically motivated attacks have been recorded this year, nearly double last year’s figure. Analysts fear this tragedy could become a dangerous flashpoint.
