Conservative activist and Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot dead while addressing students at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, an attack that has sent shockwaves through political circles and beyond. He was 31.
The incident unfolded during Kirk’s appearance on campus as part of his “American Comeback Tour.”
Witnesses said he was in the middle of a “Prove Me Wrong” debate, his signature forum inviting students to challenge his political views, when a gunshot rang out. University officials later confirmed that Kirk was struck shortly after 12 p.m. local time.
Police quickly locked down the Orem campus, going “building to building” to evacuate people. Three sources told reporters that the suspect remains at large.
News of Kirk’s death was first confirmed by former President Donald Trump, who praised the activist in an emotional post on Truth Social.
“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead,” Trump wrote. “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!”
