- Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed at Utah Valley University during a campus debate.
- Former President Donald Trump praised Kirk as a “Legendary” youth leader following the announcement of his death.
- Authorities confirmed the suspect is still at large, as the nation debates political violence and campus security.
Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old co-founder and CEO of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot during a speaking event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. The incident, which unfolded in front of a stunned crowd, has sparked renewed attention on the rise of political violence in the United States.
Eyewitness Accounts and Response
Kirk, a longtime ally of former President Donald Trump, was addressing questions from the audience under a tent branded with the slogans “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong” when a single gunshot rang out. Eyewitness videos show Kirk clutching his neck as blood poured from the wound while shocked attendees gasped and fled the courtyard. Law enforcement confirmed the shooter has not been arrested, and an individual initially taken into custody was later released, not connected to the attack.
Reaction From Trump and Supporters
Trump reacted swiftly on Truth Social, calling Kirk a “Great, and even Legendary” leader who understood the youth of America better than anyone else. The young activist had built a national following through his nonprofit, frequently sparking heated debates on campuses across the country. In a chilling twist, moments before the shooting Kirk had been answering a pointed question on mass shootings and gun violence in America.
The Aftermath and Broader Impact
The university campus remains shaken as investigators search for the suspect. Videos and first-hand accounts have circulated widely online, fueling heated discussions about free speech, campus security, and the growing climate of hostility around political discourse. Kirk’s death marks a devastating moment for the conservative movement, leaving his supporters and critics alike grappling with the implications of a life cut short in such a violent way.
