Charlie Kirk, 31, a prominent conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was shot dead on Sept 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem.
The shooting occurred during the first stop of his “American Comeback Tour,” attended by roughly 3,000 people.
Kirk was seated at his signature “Prove Me Wrong” table, engaging in live debate when a single gunshot struck his neck. He collapsed immediately; graphic footage circulated online.
Authorities believe the shot was fired from a rooftop sniper’s nest on campus.
As of Wednesday night, no suspect was in custody, though two individuals were detained and later released.
A manhunt is ongoing, with federal agencies including the FBI involved.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox labeled it a “political assassination”, calling it a dark day for the nation.
President Trump, in a video from the Oval Office, vowed to pursue those responsible and ordered flags flown at half-staff until Sunday.
A moment of silence in Congress reportedly devolved into shouting and finger-pointing, underscoring heightened tensions.
Context & Legacy:
Kirk was a key mobilizer of young conservative voters, credited by Trump for helping secure his second term.
He had 5.3 million followers on X, hosted The Charlie Kirk Show, and was a frequent Fox News contributor.
His death adds to a troubling rise in political violence in the U.S., following recent attacks on elected officials and public figures.
(source CBS News)
—Agencies
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