Eyewitnesses and viral videos showed Charlie Kirk shot in the neck and rushed from the stage.
US President Donald Trump announced Kirk’s death later on Wednesday, confirming the 31-year-old conservative leader had not survived.
Trump praised Kirk in a Truth Social post, calling him “great, legendary, and loved by all, especially me.”
He sent condolences to Kirk’s wife Erika and family, adding, “Charlie, we love you.”
Chaos at University Event
Kirk spoke at Utah Valley University under a tent with banners reading “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong.”
After answering a question, a single shot rang out, and Kirk clutched his bleeding neck.
Turning Point’s PR manager Aubrey Laitsch confirmed he had been shot, urging prayers from supporters.
Police detained a suspect immediately after the incident but later released the individual as investigations began.
The FBI confirmed agents were en route to lead the inquiry into the shooting.
Leaders Condemn Attack
Trump, Democrats, and Republicans condemned the attack and expressed support for Kirk’s family.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox pledged justice, telling Trump, “We will bring to justice the individual responsible.”
Senator Mike Lee hailed Kirk as a patriot, declaring, “The terrorists will not win. Charlie will.”
Influencer Hasan Piker, scheduled to debate Kirk this month, denounced the shooting as “a terrifying incident.”
Piker warned that reprisals after such violence could endanger many more people, including himself.
Kirk’s Rise With Turning Point
Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 with Tea Party activist William Montgomery.
The group promoted libertarian values on campuses, growing from a slow start into a national conservative force.
Turning Point backed Trump strongly after his 2016 nomination, helping Kirk gain influence and visibility.
Kirk worked closely with Donald Trump Jr. and became a frequent cable news figure during cultural debates.
Trump and his son often headlined Turning Point conferences, crediting Kirk for energizing conservative youth.
