A prominent supporter of former U.S. President Donald Trump, Charlie Kirk, was shot and killed Wednesday at an event at Utah Valley University. The incident, captured in videos circulating on social media, showed Kirk being struck by a gunshot wound to the neck. He was 31 years old.
Former President Trump confirmed Kirk’s death in a post on his personal platform, expressing his condolences. Authorities have not yet apprehended a suspect and the Federal Bureau of Investigation announced it would conduct a comprehensive investigation into the shooting.
Kirk was the founder and chairman of “Turning Point USA” an organization primarily active in high schools and universities. The organization is known for its support of conservative viewpoints and its outreach to young people. Kirk frequently advocated for limited government intervention through podcasts, short videos and public appearances. He also voiced strong opinions against Islam, abortion and gender-affirming surgeries. He opposed stricter gun control measures, famously arguing that the Second Amendment right to bear arms was worth the occasional loss of life.
Former President Trump described Kirk as someone who “understood the heart of youth” in the United States. He has ordered that all U.S. flags be flown at half-staff through Sunday as a mark of respect. The shooting has drawn condemnation from across the political spectrum, including from former Vice President Kamala Harris, who stated that political violence has no place in the United States.
