Trump’s ally and right-wing activist Charlie Kirk was shot dead on Wednesday during an event at Utah Valley University. The 31-year-old, co-founder and CEO of Turning Point USA, was a well-known conservative figure and close supporter of  U.S. President Donald Trump.

Trump announced Kirk’s death on his Truth Social platform, praising him as “Great, and even Legendary,” and adding that “No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie.”
The shooting happened while Kirk was speaking at a debate event organised by Turning Point USA. 

Videos shared online show Kirk talking under a tent labelled with slogans like “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong.” Suddenly, a gunshot is heard, and Kirk can be seen grabbing his neck as blood pours out. People in the audience screamed and ran in panic. The Associated Press confirmed the video’s location as the Sorensen Centre courtyard at the university.

Authorities said the suspected shooter has not yet been arrested. Someone was taken into custody, but officials later clarified that person was not the shooter. Orem Mayor David Young said the investigation is ongoing.
Just before the shooting, Kirk was answering a question from an audience member about mass shootings and gun violence. His response was interrupted by the gunfire.

Kirk’s presence on campus had sparked debate. Nearly 1,000 people signed an online petition asking the university to cancel his event, but the university defended it, citing free speech rights. The shooting drew strong reactions across the political spectrum. Trump and many lawmakers condemned the violence and expressed prayers for Kirk’s family. Former Utah congressman Jason Chaffetz, who attended the event, said security was light and the shot seemed to be fired at close range.

Kirk founded Turning Point USA in 2012 at age 18. Over time, the group became highly influential in conservative politics, especially among young voters, and Kirk grew close to Trump and his family. His sudden death adds to growing concerns about political violence in the United States.