Charlie Kirk, well-known TV personality and right-wing activist, has died after being shot during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. He was just 31 years old.
The news was first confirmed by Turning Point USA. This organization was founded by Kirk when he was only 18. A spokesperson for the group, Andrew Kolvet, told The New York Times that Kirk was fatally shot while addressing students during the first stop of his highly publicized American Comeback Tour.
Videos of this shocking moment are circulating on social media. It can be seen that Kirk was talking to the crowd, and suddenly he got hit in the neck. Students screamed and ran in all directions. Chaos broke out on campus. Police at Utah Valley University quickly confirmed the shooting and told everyone there to stay inside the building while they searched for the gunman.
Ellen Treanor, a spokesperson for the university, said Charlie Kirk was shot from the Losee Center building, which is approximately 200 yards from the stage. At first, there were reports that police had arrested the suspect. However, later, officials made it clear that the suspect was still on the run and the investigation was ongoing.
This tragedy has drawn national attention. Former President Donald Trump paid tribute to Kirk on Truth Social. He called him “a great, and even legendary” figure who connected deeply with young people. Trump later ordered U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff through the weekend in honor of Charlie Kirk.
Before the tragedy, Kirk had shared photos from the event, writing, “Utah Valley University is fired up and ready.” His death has left every single supporter shocked and devastated.
Charlie Kirk leaves behind his wife, former Miss Arizona USA Erika Frantzve, and their two children.
