Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and close ally of former President Donald Trump, was shot on Wednesday during an event at Utah Valley University. The incident was confirmed by Trump himself through the White House's official account. Kirk, who is 31 years old, was reported to be in critical condition at a hospital by his organization, Turning Point USA. Videos circulating on social media show that the injury, located on his neck, is quite severe.
Witnesses indicated that the shot came from a building on campus approximately 200 yards from where Kirk was addressing the crowd around 1:00 p.m. Former President Donald Trump responded to the attack on his Truth Social platform, stating: "We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A terrific guy through and through. GOD BLESS HIM!"
The FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the agency is actively monitoring the situation and has sent agents to the scene to assist with the investigation. "Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and all who are affected," he wrote on X.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox also commented on the situation, stating, "Those involved will be held fully accountable. Violence has no place in our public life. Americans of all political persuasions must unite to condemn this act."
The suspect in the shooting has been apprehended by authorities. Kirk, who serves as CEO and co-founder of Turning Point USA, established the organization in 2012 to advocate for conservative policies on college and high school campuses. He has amassed millions of followers on social media and is a prominent advocate of gun rights. In previous statements, he has argued that "the cost of some gun-related deaths each year is worth preserving the Second Amendment."
He also mentioned that "gun deaths are the price of freedom," a statement which now ironically seems to include him in its statistics. Shortly before the shooting, he had posted on his X profile: "Utah Valley University is LIT and READY for the first stop back on the American Comeback Tour."
Investigations into the attack are ongoing, and no motive has been reported as of yet.
Key Questions About the Charlie Kirk Shooting Incident
What was Charlie Kirk doing at Utah Valley University?
Charlie Kirk was attending an event as part of the American Comeback Tour at Utah Valley University when he was shot.
Who is Charlie Kirk?
Charlie Kirk is a well-known political activist, CEO, and co-founder of Turning Point USA, which promotes conservative policies on educational campuses.
How did Donald Trump respond to the shooting?
Donald Trump expressed his support for Charlie Kirk on his Truth Social account, urging people to pray for Kirk and praising him as a terrific individual.