Witnesses saw Charlie Kirk shot in the neck and rushed from the stage at Utah Valley University.
US President Donald Trump announced Kirk’s death, calling him “great and legendary” on Truth Social.
Trump said Kirk understood and inspired American youth and offered condolences to his wife Erika and family.
Immediate Response and Investigation
Turning Point spokesperson Aubrey Laitsch confirmed Kirk had been shot and urged prayers for him.
Videos showed Kirk under a white tent labeled “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong” when a single shot rang out.
Police detained a suspect immediately but later released the individual while investigations began.
The FBI deployed agents to lead the investigation into the shooting.
Reactions from Officials and Public Figures
Trump, Republican and Democratic leaders condemned the shooting and offered support for Kirk’s family.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox pledged to bring the shooter to justice after speaking with Trump.
Senator Mike Lee called Kirk an “American patriot” and urged swift justice.
Influencer Hasan Piker condemned the violence, warning that anyone could become a target.
Kirk’s Career and Legacy
Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 to promote low taxes and limited government on campuses.
The organisation grew to reach hundreds of thousands nationwide, influencing conservative politics and campus activism.
Kirk served as a personal aide to Donald Trump Jr. in the 2016 campaign and frequently appeared on television.
He built Turning Point into a platform supporting Trump and confronting liberal academics, attracting major conservative financiers.
