Charlie Kirk, a close associate of U.S. President Donald Trump, was shot and killed while addressing students at Utah Valley University, in a shocking act of violence reportedly carried out by an opponent of Trump. Kirk was shot in the neck and immediately collapsed; he was rushed to a hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. The suspect is currently in police custody. Prior to the event, over 1,000 signatures were submitted to the university requesting the cancellation of Kirk’s program, but the university maintained the event in support of free speech and constructive discussion.
Expressing grief over Kirk’s death, Trump described him as an exceptional individual on Truth Social and called for the national flag to be lowered in his honor. Trump highlighted Kirk’s deep understanding of American youth and recalled how he had mobilized a youth army that contributed to his electoral success. The former president also emphasized Kirk’s pivotal role in the MAGA movement and his consistent focus on engaging young voters.
Charlie Kirk shot at a Turning Point event.
Political violence is a growing cancer in the United States and as long as it continues to grow it will spare no party, ideology. pic.twitter.com/ojbuQybyB9
— Yashar Ali 🐘 (@yashar) September 10, 2025
Charlie Kirk, aged 31, entered politics at just 23 and became a prominent figure as CEO and co-founder of Turning Point USA Youth Organization. He organized high-profile meetings, built influencer networks, and executed digital campaigns that generated millions of dollars for political initiatives. Kirk’s death is being widely mourned, and his contributions to youth engagement and political mobilization are being recognized across the United States.