UPDATE – 2:10 pm PDT: President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death in a post on Truth Social Wednesday evening, calling him “a courageous voice for America’s youth and freedom” and pledging that “those responsible will face justice.”
Turning Point USA released a brief statement saying the organization was “devastated by the loss of our founder and friend.”
Public officials and faith leaders across the country have called for prayers not only for Kirk’s family but also for peace in public life. Many Catholic dioceses and campus ministries are encouraging the faithful to offer Mass intentions and light candles in memory of Kirk and for the healing of the community at Utah Valley University.
Conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was shot Wednesday during a campus event at Utah Valley University, according to multiple reports.
Kirk, a generous supporter of Catholic Online School, was on the first stop of what he called the “American Comeback Tour.” Just before the event, he posted on X that “Utah Valley University is FIRED UP and READY for the first stop back on the American Comeback Tour,” according to CNN.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear. Eyewitnesses reported that the attack occurred during an outdoor Q&A session, causing students to scatter. Kirk was taken from the scene by his security team, but the extent of his injuries has not been disclosed.
Federal officials confirmed they are monitoring the situation. “Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected. Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation,” FBI Director Kash Patel said in a post on X, according to CNN.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox said he had been briefed on the incident and pledged accountability. “Those responsible will be held fully accountable. Violence has no place in our public life. Americans of every political persuasion must unite in condemning this act. Our prayers are with Charlie, his family, and all those affected,” Cox said, according to CNN.
Turning Point USA confirmed the shooting in a statement but did not release additional details about Kirk’s condition.
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