U.S. conservative activist Charlie Kirk dies after shooting at university event

CBC News reports that Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, died after being shot during a live event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The attack happened during the first stop of his “American Comeback Tour,” with about 3,000 people present. Video shows him struck in the neck and collapsing as attendees fled in panic.

Authorities initially gave conflicting reports about the shooter—at times suggesting a suspect was in custody, then clarifying the gunman was still at large. Officials said the shot came from a rooftop on campus. Utah Governor Spencer Cox condemned the attack as a “political assassination,” and the campus was shut down while police and federal agencies investigated.

Kirk was transported to the hospital and underwent surgery but did not survive. His death was confirmed publicly by Donald Trump, who praised him as a key figure in mobilizing young voters. Kirk was a prominent ally of Trump, with over 5 million followers on X, a popular podcast, and frequent appearances on Fox News.

The shooting drew bipartisan condemnation, with leaders across parties denouncing political violence. Kirk’s event had already stirred controversy on campus, with petitions opposing his appearance. While the motive remains unclear, the attack has been framed as part of a broader surge in political violence in the U.S. since January 6, 2021.