Charlie Kirk, a well-known conservative activist and ally of former President Donald Trump, has died after being shot during a speaking event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. He was 31 years old.
The shooting happened while Kirk was speaking under a white gazebo as part of his American Comeback Tour. He was answering a question about mass shootings when he was struck in the neck by a single bullet. Videos show Kirk collapsing immediately, with blood visible on his shirt. The crowd panicked, rushing to safety while security tried to assist.
Authorities confirmed that a suspect is in custody. The shot was fired from about 200 yards away. The campus was put on lockdown and closed for the rest of the day.
Kirk founded Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization. He was known for rallying young voters and defending former President Trump. His death is a big loss to the conservative movement, where he was seen as a rising star.
President Donald Trump released a statement expressing his grief: “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me. My sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”
Investigations into the shooting are ongoing. Police have not shared details about the suspect’s motive or how the attack happened in broad daylight at a university.
This tragic event has shocked the university community and the nation. It raises serious questions about safety at public events and campuses. Authorities have promised updates as the investigation continues.
