Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, 31, was shot and killed while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The founder of Turning Point USA was struck by a single bullet during the outdoor gathering, which drew thousands of attendees. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but later died from his injuries.
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the shooting, with the FBI and local law enforcement working together. Utah Governor Spencer Cox condemned the incident as a “political assassination,” pledging justice for those responsible. Police said one person was briefly detained for questioning but later released, and no arrests have been made.
News of Kirk’s death prompted widespread reaction from across the political spectrum. President Donald Trump paid tribute on social media, calling Kirk “great, and even Legendary.” Lawmakers from both parties condemned the attack and warned about the growing threat of political violence in the United States.
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote, “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, 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 (sic)!”
