Right-wing political influencer and activist Charlie Kirk, one of President Donald Trump's main allies, died Wednesday after being shot during a public event at Utah Valley University in the western United States.
The incident occurred in front of nearly 2,000 people, former Congressman Jason Chaffetz told Fox News, while Kirk was serving as a guest speaker on campus. Video of the event shows Kirk slumping in his chair after the gunshot was heard, causing immediate panic among those in attendance.
University officials confirmed gunfire and asked people to stay indoors. An alert sent to students indicated that one person had been arrested, though university spokesman Scott Trotter later told The New York Times that the person arrested was not the shooter.
University police spokeswoman Christine Nelson limited her statement to confirming the shooting and the police presence on campus while FBI and ATF agents conducted the investigation and conducted security.
Chaffetz, who was present, told Fox News that the attack occurred during the question-and-answer session: “The first question was about religion. He spoke for about 15-20 minutes. The second question, interestingly, was about transgender shooters, mass shooters, and at that moment the gunshot was heard.”
President Donald Trump publicly expressed his dismay through Truth Social, where he wrote, “We all need to pray for Charlie Kirk who was shot. A great man through and through. God bless him!”
The attack on Kirk drew reactions from multiple political figures, including Vice President JD Vance, who asked for prayers for the activist's family. Utah Senator Mike Lee also urged solidarity on social media.
On the Democratic front, former Vice President Kamala Harris condemned the attack. In a message cited by CNN, she said: “Political violence has no place in the United States. I condemn this act, and we must all work together to ensure this does not escalate into further violence.”
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the shooter and the investigation continues. FBI Director Kash Patel said via X: “We are closely monitoring reports regarding the tragic shooting involving Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones and everyone affected.”
Charlie Kirk, born in October 1993 in Illinois and a father of two, was known for founding Turning Point, a student organization that promotes conservative values. He played a key role in increasing youth support for Trump, and he had a strong presence during the presidential campaign and inauguration.
The American political community remains awaiting progress in the investigation, while Kirk's entourage and supporters mourn the loss of the activist.
