Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, a close ally of former U.S. President Donald Trump, was shot dead on Thursday while addressing students at Utah Valley University. He was 31.
Kirk was speaking under a tent with banners reading “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong” when a single gunshot struck him in the neck. Disturbing videos from the scene show him clutching his wound as panicked students screamed and fled.
Trump confirmed Kirk’s death and ordered American flags flown at half-mast until Sunday. Calling him “a tremendous person” and “a very, very good friend,” Trump said, “No one understood or had the heart of the youth in the United States better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me. We must all pray for Charlie Kirk.”
Authorities remain unclear about the shooter’s identity. FBI Director Kash Patel initially announced that a suspect had been taken into custody, praising law enforcement’s quick response. However, he later said the person had been released after questioning. Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed investigators believe only one individual was involved, though confusion remains about whether the gunman escaped.
Former congressman Jason Chaffetz, who witnessed the shooting, told Fox News that Kirk had just answered a question when the shot rang out. “As soon as I saw Charlie go back, you realize it was a shot. It wasn’t as if there was a whole bunch of gunfire. It was one shot,” he said, adding that security at the event seemed light.
Videos posted online show chaos as students ducked for cover, ran across fountains, and some prayed at the scene. A woman in a red “MAGA” hat was seen crying as others rushed to help.
The killing has drawn widespread condemnation across party lines. Republican leaders like Vice President JD Vance and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis mourned Kirk and condemned violence. Democratic figures, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, also denounced the attack, calling it “vile” and saying political disputes should never turn violent.
Utah Valley University, the state’s largest public institution with nearly 47,000 students, was placed under lockdown. Administrators confirmed heightened security would remain in place as the investigation continues.
The event itself had been controversial, with nearly 1,000 people signing a petition urging the university to cancel Kirk’s appearance. Officials defended his visit, citing free speech.
Trump described Kirk as a “legendary debater” and said his legacy with America’s youth would endure despite what he called “a dark moment for our nation.”
