Eyewitnesses saw a bullet strike Charlie Kirk’s neck before aides rushed him off stage in Utah.
US President Donald Trump confirmed on Wednesday that the 31-year-old Turning Point USA co-founder died after the attack.
Trump praised Kirk on Truth Social, calling him “legendary” and declaring, “Charlie, we love you.”
Shooting at Utah Valley University
Videos show Kirk speaking under a white tent before a gunshot ended his response to an audience question.
Blood poured from his neck as he reached up with his right hand, witnesses reported on social media.
Police detained a suspect immediately after the shooting but later released the individual as investigations continued.
The FBI dispatched agents to Utah to take charge of the investigation into the incident.
Tributes and Reactions Pour In
Utah Governor Spencer Cox vowed justice after speaking directly with Trump about Kirk’s death.
Senator Mike Lee called Kirk an “American patriot” and declared, “The terrorists will not win. Charlie will.”
Left-wing commentator Hasan Piker condemned the shooting as “terrifying,” warning that others, including himself, could be next.
Legacy of Turning Point USA
Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 at age 18 with activist William Montgomery in suburban Chicago.
The group promoted libertarian values, eventually attracting conservative donors and spreading to campuses nationwide.
Kirk built influence by backing Trump during the 2016 campaign, serving as aide to Donald Trump Jr.
His outspoken defense of culture-war issues made him a regular face on television and a favorite at Trump rallies.
