Eyewitnesses saw Charlie Kirk shot in the neck before staff rushed him from Utah Valley University’s stage.
US President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death Wednesday, calling him “great, and even legendary” on Truth Social.
Trump praised Kirk’s dedication to American youth and extended condolences to his wife, Erika, and family.
Shooting Details and Campus Response
Videos show Kirk speaking when a single shot struck, blood pouring from his neck as he reached up.
Police detained a suspect immediately but later released the individual while investigators launched a full-scale inquiry.
Kirk addressed a debate hosted by Turning Point USA under a tent displaying “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong.”
Campus activists circulated a petition urging university officials to bar Kirk, collecting nearly 1,000 signatures before the event.
The university defended his appearance, citing First Amendment rights and committing to free speech and constructive dialogue.
National and Political Reactions
Trump and numerous Republican and Democratic officials condemned the attack and offered prayers for Kirk.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox vowed to deliver justice, speaking with Trump after the incident.
Senator Mike Lee called Kirk an “American patriot” and warned that terrorists would not prevail.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed agents are on site leading the federal investigation.
Left-wing commentator Hasan Piker condemned the shooting, warning anyone could become a target amid potential retaliation.
Kirk’s Conservative Legacy
Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 with William Montgomery to advocate low taxes and limited government.
The organisation grew from a small campus group to reach hundreds of thousands of students across the US.
Kirk gained conservative financial backing through his efforts confronting liberals in academia.
Turning Point supported Donald Trump in 2016, and Kirk worked as a personal aide to Donald Trump Jr.
Kirk frequently appeared on cable television, defending conservative viewpoints and attending Turning Point conferences alongside Trump and his son.
