Charlie Kirk, the influential conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot dead on Wednesday during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem, Utah.
The incident has sent shockwaves across the United States, prompting widespread condemnation of political violence.
According to witnesses and video footage circulating on social media, 31-year-old Kirk was addressing a large crowd under a tent in the university’s quad during a “Prove Me Wrong” question-and-answer session when he was shot.
A single gunshot rang out, striking Kirk in the neck while he was responding to a student’s question about mass shootings in America.
Chaos erupted as attendees screamed and fled, with Kirk collapsing and being rushed to a hospital by his security team.
U.S. President Donald Trump, in a post on Truth Social, confirmed Kirk’s demise despite medical efforts.
Trump described Kirk as “the great, and even legendary,” praising his connection with America’s youth and expressing condolences to Erika, Kirk’s wife, and their family.
“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead,” Trump wrote.
“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, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”
Trump has ordered that all American flags throughout the US be lowered at half-mast in honour of Kirk.
Kirk, a prominent figure in conservative circles, was known for his outspoken support of Trump and his role in mobilising young conservatives through Turning Point USA, a youth-focused advocacy group he co-founded in 2012.
