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| Photo/ Charlie Kirk |
Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and the founder of Turning Point USA, has tragically passed away after being shot during a campus event at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem on Wednesday. He was just 31 years old.
Kirk was immediately taken to a hospital in critical condition following the shooting but ultimately succumbed to his injuries, as reported by law enforcement officials.
US President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s passing in a post on Truth Social.
"The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. 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!"
The incident occurred around 12:20 p.m. during a Turning Point USA event at UVU, part of the "American Comeback Tour." Video footage from the event seemed to show Kirk being shot while he was speaking under a white tent. Witnesses reported chaos as attendees screamed and rushed to flee the scene.
UVU spokesperson Ellen Treanor stated that the suspect, who was initially thought to be in custody, has since been released. As of Wednesday evening, police confirmed that the shooter remains at large. Campus police, along with Orem officers, are actively continuing their investigation.
The university implemented an immediate lockdown and later began evacuating students building by building, with police escorts guiding individuals off campus. Roads leading to UVU were closed as over 60 emergency vehicles from nearby agencies responded to the situation.
Kirk, who co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012, transformed it into one of the most influential conservative youth organizations in the United States. A regular media commentator, podcast host, and political strategist, he was renowned for mobilizing young conservatives on college campuses across the nation. He is survived by his wife, Erika, and their two children.
The shooting has sparked a wave of shock and condemnation, as national leaders, political allies, and student organizations voice their grief and anger. A manhunt for the suspect is still in progress.