Charlie Kirk, the CEO and co-founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, tragically died at the age of 31 after being shot during a debate event at Utah Valley University on September 10. The shooting occurred at the Sorensen Centre courtyard, where Kirk was speaking to attendees.
Reactions from Political Figures
In the wake of the incident, tributes have poured in from both sides of the political spectrum. Donald Trump, who described Kirk as a “very, very good friend,” expressed his grief on Truth Social, writing: “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”
Kamala Harris, the former vice president, also condemned the shooting, saying: “I am deeply disturbed by the shooting in Utah. Doug and I send our prayers to Charlie Kirk and his family. Let me be clear: Political violence has no place in America. I condemn this act, and we all must work together to ensure this does not lead to more violence.”
Joe Biden also shared his thoughts, writing: “There is no place in our country for this kind of violence. It must end now. Jill and I are praying for Charlie Kirk’s family and loved ones.”
In response, Piers Morgan described the attack as “disgusting,” calling it “an appalling assault on free speech and democracy.”
The Shooting Incident
The shooting took place during an event hosted by Kirk at Utah Valley University. According to sources, video footage from the incident, which circulated on social media, showed the moment the attack occurred. The shooter, who was initially taken into custody, was later released, and the investigation is ongoing.
Former Utah Congressman Jason Chaffetz, who was present at the event, spoke to Fox News Channel about the shocking scene. He described the shooting as seeming like a “close shot,” adding that while there was some police presence at the event, the atmosphere was generally calm. “Utah is one of the safest places on the planet,” Chaffetz remarked. “And so we just don’t have these types of things.”
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Charlie Kirk has died aged 31 (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
Ongoing Investigation
As of now, the shooter remains at large, and authorities are continuing their investigation. In response to Kirk’s death, President Trump has ordered that American flags be flown at half-mast across the country. “In honor of Charlie Kirk, a truly Great American Patriot, I am ordering all American Flags throughout the United States lowered to Half Mast until Sunday evening at 6 P.M,” Trump wrote.
A Nation in Mourning
Charlie Kirk was known for his outspoken conservative views and commitment to promoting youth involvement in politics. His untimely death has shocked the nation, and his contributions to political discourse will be remembered by many. As the investigation continues, his family, friends, and supporters mourn the loss of a passionate advocate for his beliefs.
Featured Image Credit: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
