Popular conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, an ardent supporter of President Donald Trump, was killed during a college event at Utah Valley University. The president confirmed Kirk’s passing on Wednesday afternoon.
Videos of Kirk, the co-founder of the youth political organization Turning Point USA, amid what appeared to be a typical speaking event, one where he was underneath a tent and holding a microphone, circulated on social media. But the footage took a tragic turn when it caught a single gunshot ringing out and blood gushing from the left side of Kirk’s neck as he reached his right hand in the air. Stunned audience members were seen fleeing the scene and trying to get to safety.
Later in the afternoon, FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the subject believed to be responsible for Kirk’s death had been apprehended. Videos from the scene showed police officers taking an elderly man into custody. However, Patel later announced that the arrestee was released after being investigated by law enforcement. Authorities are still investigating the shooting and searching for anyone connected to Kirk’s slaying.
Kirk was a husband and father of two. He rose to popularity by speaking at college campuses and challenging young people to debate him on political topics, like abortion, gun rights, transgenderism, and free speech, among other hot-button issues. He was also a vocal Christian who encouraged young people to abandon societal norms and to pursue more traditional lifestyles, including marrying young, having children, and going to church.
In a four-minute address from the Oval Office, President Trump sang Kirk’s praises, saying the conservative influencer fought for liberty, democracy, and justice, and that he was a martyr for truth and freedom. The president referred to Kirk as a man of faith, and said he takes comfort in the knowledge that the 31-year-old is at peace with God in heaven.
“To my great fellow Americans, I am filled with grief and anger at the heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk on a college campus in Utah. Charlie inspired millions, and tonight, all who knew him and loved him
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