Charlie Kirk, Conservative Activist and Trump Ally, Killed in Utah Campus Shooting

Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was killed Wednesday after being shot during a campus event in Utah. He was 31 years old.

The shooting took place at Utah Valley University in Orem, where Kirk was launching his 14-city “American Comeback Tour.” According to video taken by attendees, the crowd screamed as Kirk recoiled in his seat and appeared to reach for his neck after a single gunshot was heard.

Former Congressman Jason Chaffetz, who was at the event with family, described Kirk as energetic and engaging with the audience before the chaos unfolded. “I was watching Charlie… I did see him fall immediately backwards,” Chaffetz told Fox News.

Kirk had been a prominent supporter of President Donald Trump, using Turning Point’s national network to rally young voters on college campuses and in churches. Trump, who credited Kirk with galvanizing youth support during his campaigns, confirmed the news of his death on Truth Social, calling Kirk a “patriot” and “friend.”

Since co-founding Turning Point USA in 2012 at just 18, Kirk became a central figure in modern conservative politics. Known for his campus debates and media appearances, he also hosted a nationally syndicated three-hour radio show. Kirk traveled frequently with private security, according to aides.

Kirk was married to Erika Frantzve, with whom he shared two young children.

Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum, with Trump allies mourning the loss and even critics acknowledging his influence.

The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and officials have not released further details about the suspect or motive.

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