Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed on Wednesday during a public appearance at Utah Valley University. The incident, which occurred during Kirk's "The American Comeback Tour," has been characterized by Utah's governor as a political assassination.
According to reports, the shot was fired while Kirk was speaking to a crowd. Videos circulating on social media appear to show the moment the shot rang out and Kirk collapsing. Authorities stated that the shooter is believed to have fired from the roof of a building on campus.
President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk's death on his social media platform, Truth Social, calling him "Great, and even Legendary." Trump also announced that he had ordered flags across the United States to be flown at half-staff until Sunday in Kirk's honor. He later released a video from the White House, where he blamed rhetoric from the "radical left" for the violence.
While a "person of interest" was initially taken into custody, they were later released and determined to have no connection to the shooting. Authorities have stated that a manhunt for the shooter is ongoing. The FBI has committed its full resources to the investigation, working alongside Utah state authorities.
The event at Utah Valley University had generated some controversy, with an online petition calling for Kirk's appearance to be barred. Kirk, known for his work engaging young conservatives and his strong support for President Trump, was 31 years old. He is survived by his wife, Erika, and two children. The shooting has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders across the aisle, with many calling for an end to political violence in the United States.
