Eyewitnesses saw Charlie Kirk suffer a neck wound before security rushed him from the stage for treatment.
US President Donald Trump later confirmed Kirk’s death on Wednesday, praising him as “great, and even legendary.”
Trump posted on Truth Social, saying Kirk understood America’s youth better than anyone and remained deeply loved.
He offered condolences to Kirk’s wife Erika and family, adding, “Charlie, we love you.”
Shooting and Immediate Aftermath
Social media videos showed Kirk speaking at Utah Valley University under a tent with campaign slogans.
A gunshot rang out after Kirk answered an audience question, and blood streamed from his neck.
Police detained a suspect immediately after the shooting but later released the individual, pending further investigation.
Law enforcement confirmed an investigation had begun, with the FBI deploying agents to lead the inquiry.
Political and Public Reactions
Aubrey Laitsch of Turning Point confirmed the shooting earlier, saying the organisation prayed for Kirk’s recovery.
Trump, Republicans, and Democrats condemned the attack online, with Utah Governor Spencer Cox vowing justice.
Senator Mike Lee called Kirk an “American patriot,” insisting terrorists “will not win.”
Left-wing influencer Hasan Piker, scheduled to debate Kirk, denounced the shooting as “a terrifying incident.”
He warned about dangerous cycles of vengeance, noting anyone could become the next target.
Kirk’s Legacy and Turning Point’s Rise
Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 with Tea Party activist William Montgomery near Chicago.
The group advocated low taxes and limited government on campuses and steadily expanded across the US.
Kirk’s confrontational style eventually attracted wealthy conservative donors and aligned him with Donald Trump.
He served Donald Trump Jr. during the 2016 election and later became a constant voice in culture wars.
Trump and his son frequently praised Kirk and supported Turning Point conferences, cementing his political influence.
