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Tengrinews.kz – Prominent U.S. conservative activist and blogger Charlie Kirk was fatally shot during a speech at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The 31-year-old was struck in the neck while addressing an audience of nearly 3,000 as part of his American Comeback Tour.
Utah’s Department of Public Safety reported that the gunfire erupted around 12:20 p.m. local time. The shooter allegedly opened fire from the rooftop of a building overlooking the campus courtyard. Kirk was rushed to hospital in critical condition but later died, with U.S. President Donald Trump confirming his death.
According to CNN, the attack occurred moments after Kirk was answering a question about gun violence in America. A heated exchange with an audience member was underway when shots rang out, sparking panic in the hall.
Who was Charlie Kirk
Born on October 14, 1993, in Illinois, Kirk rose to prominence as the co-founder of Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization active on more than 850 college campuses. A close ally of Donald Trump and a leading voice of the MAGA movement, he hosted a popular podcast and had millions of followers on social media.
Kirk was known for his outspoken criticism of U.S. military aid to Ukraine, mass migration, and progressive policies, particularly transgender rights and gender-affirming care for minors. He frequently argued that liberal reforms threatened American values and often clashed with Democrats on issues of race, immigration, and social policy.
Reactions and aftermath
The shooting prompted nationwide mourning. Vigils were held in Arizona, Washington, and other states, while sports teams and student groups paid tribute. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson announced Congress would observe a minute of silence.
President Trump ordered flags to be flown at half-staff, describing Kirk as someone who “deeply understood and cared for America’s youth”. Former president Joe Biden also condemned the attack, urging an end to political violence.
Authorities, including the FBI and Utah prosecutors, are investigating the killing. The state’s governor called it a “political assassination”, labeling the day “tragic for our country”.
