Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, died this Wednesday after being shot at the Utah Valley University, as confirmed by statements from former President Donald Trump on Truth Social. The attack occurred around 1:00 p.m. local time, when a shooter opened fire from a campus building about 200 meters away.
Kirk, 31 years old, was at the first stop of his tour American Comeback Tour, which included at least 14 universities this fall. Witnesses cited by CNN reported that the shot was heard right after the activist answered a question about violence and transgender people. “After hearing the shot, Charlie was seen collapsing. His neck twisted and we saw blood immediately,” said Emma Pitts.
Immediate Reactions
President Donald Trump called for prayers for Kirk: “We all must pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom! GOD BLESS HIM!”, he wrote on Truth Social.
The Governor of Utah, Spencer Cox, assured that “those involved will be fully held accountable” and called to condemn violence. The FBI and ATF are collaborating on the investigation, as reported by Justice Secretary Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel.
The Utah Valley University closed the campus and canceled classes, asking students to remain in safe places until escorted by police.
A Christian and Pro-Life Activist
Charlie Kirk was one of the youngest and most influential figures in pro-life and Christian conservatism in the U.S., known for expressing his faith publicly and consistently. In 2012, he co-founded Turning Point USA, an organization that strongly promoted conservative politics in schools and universities.
A Rising Trend
The murder of Charlie Kirk confirms a tragic and repetitive constant: various episodes of violence eliminating the enemies of the woke left. Political violence in the U.S. continues to claim the lives of figures who fearlessly defend the truth, faith, and life.