Charlie Kirk, the conservative political activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, has been killed after being shot during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. He was 31.
The incident took place on Wednesday afternoon during the first stop of Kirk’s American Comeback Tour. A single shot was fired from a nearby building as Kirk addressed a crowd on campus. Witnesses reported panic in the audience as people scrambled for cover.
As reported by CNN: President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death on social media, praising his influence on the Republican Party’s youth movement. “In honor of Charlie Kirk, a truly Great American Patriot, I am ordering all American Flags throughout the United States lowered to Half Mast until Sunday evening at 6 P.M.,” Trump wrote.
Turning Point USA also issued a statement to staff and supporters, saying Kirk “went to his eternal reward with Jesus Christ in Heaven.” The organisation described him as a leader who dedicated his life to mobilising young conservatives and shaping the modern Republican Party.
Authorities initially reported that a suspect had been taken into custody, but the university later clarified that no one is currently detained. The investigation remains ongoing, and the identity of the shooter has not been released. Utah Valley University suspended classes and placed the campus under lockdown as police secured the area.
Tributes
Tributes have come from across the political spectrum. President Joe Biden called the shooting “despicable” and urged an end to political violence, adding, “Jill and I are praying for Charlie Kirk’s family and loved ones.” Former President Barack Obama echoed the sentiment, offering condolences to Kirk’s wife Erika and their two children.
Other figures who have themselves been victims of political violence, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and former Representative Gabrielle Giffords, also condemned the attack. Republican National Committee Chair Joe Gruters described Kirk as “a father, husband, and dedicated patriot.”
Kirk rose to prominence as a key ally of Trump, credited with energising young voters and helping drive grassroots conservative activism across the country. His death leaves a significant mark on America’s already polarised political landscape.
Credit: https://edition.cnn.com/us/live-news/charlie-kirk-shot-utah-09-10-25
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