Eyewitnesses saw Charlie Kirk take a bullet to the neck at Utah Valley University before aides rushed him off stage.
US President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death on Wednesday, calling him “great and legendary” and praising his connection with youth.
Trump offered condolences to Kirk’s wife Erika and his family, highlighting Kirk’s influence and admiration nationwide.
Shooting Unfolds During Campus Debate
Kirk spoke at a Turning Point USA debate under a tent displaying “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong” slogans.
A single shot rang out after Kirk answered an audience question, causing heavy bleeding from his neck.
Police detained a suspect immediately but later released them while investigators launched a full inquiry into the incident.
The event sparked divided opinions, with nearly 1,000 signatures on a petition asking the university to bar Kirk.
The university cited First Amendment rights, reaffirming commitment to free speech, intellectual debate, and constructive dialogue.
Political and Public Reactions
Trump and lawmakers from both parties condemned the shooting and offered prayers for Kirk.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox promised justice for the attacker after speaking with Trump.
Senator Mike Lee called Kirk an “American patriot” and vowed that terrorists would not win.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed agents are on-site to lead the investigation.
Left-wing influencer Hasan Piker condemned the attack as terrifying and warned others could be targeted next.
Kirk’s Legacy and Influence
Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 with William Montgomery to promote low taxes and limited government.
Turning Point grew over the years to reach hundreds of thousands of students across the United States.
Kirk gained support from conservative financiers by challenging liberal influence in academia and became a high-profile Trump ally.
He served as an aide to Donald Trump Jr. during the 2016 election and frequently appeared on television advocating conservative causes.
Trump and his son often spoke at Turning Point events, highlighting Kirk’s influence in conservative politics and youth outreach.
