The conservative activist Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, has died after being shot during a campus event at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem on Wednesday. He was 31.
Kirk was rushed to a hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to his injuries, law enforcement confirmed.
His death has sent shockwaves across the United States, particularly within conservative circles where he had built a strong following.
U.S. President Donald Trump mourned Kirk’s passing in a heartfelt statement on Truth Social.
“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the heart of the youth in the United States of America better than Charlie.
He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”
Following the attack, Utah Valley University declared an immediate lockdown before later evacuating students building by building under police escort.
More than 60 emergency vehicles responded as roads leading to campus were shut down.
The school has suspended all activities until Monday. “All classes (in-person or virtual), campus events, and administrative operations will be suspended during this time,” UVU announced on its website, assuring staff they would continue to receive regular pay.
Officials also confirmed there was no ongoing threat on campus, though a manhunt for the suspect remains underway.
Inside the White House, aides reacted with visible grief as news broke. Words like “In shock,” “Just sick,” and “Devastated” captured the mood of senior staff who had long-standing ties to Kirk.
One aide described the atmosphere as surreal, with senior communications officials huddling in the Upper Press office while TV screens reported the unfolding chaos.
Charlie Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 and quickly grew it into one of the most influential conservative youth organizations in America.
Known for his fiery speeches, campus activism, and podcast hosting, Kirk became a central figure in shaping conservative discourse among young voters.
Supporters praised his tireless energy in mobilizing students and challenging liberal strongholds on college campuses.
Critics, however, often accused him of stoking division.
Kirk is survived by his wife, Erika, and their two children.
Messages of sympathy and condemnation have poured in from across the political spectrum.
Lawmakers, student groups, and global leaders expressed sorrow, while calling for stronger action to prevent campus violence.
“Violence only deepens mistrust and prolongs suffering,”
As investigations continue, America reflects on the sudden loss of a polarizing yet influential figure.
