Charlie Kirk, the far-right activist and executive director of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), has been killed following a shooting at Utah Valley University. In a video address from the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump described Kirk as a “martyr for freedom and truth.”
WARNING: THE VIDEO IS EXTREMELY GRAPHIC AND DISTURBING! VIEWER DISCRETION STRONGLY ADVISED!!!
Trump said Kirk’s mission was to inspire young Americans to join the political process, share a “love for the country,” and spread “words of common sense.” According to the president, the attack on Kirk was an attack on the entire nation.
“Charlie Kirk gave his life for freedom and for truth. He inspired countless young Americans to believe in their country and in conservative values. His loss is not just personal — it is a loss for the entire United States,” Trump said.
Kirk, 31, was shot in the neck during his public appearance at the university and transported to the hospital in critical condition, where he later died. Video from the scene showed the chaos following the gunfire. Police confirmed that the suspected shooter was arrested at the site of the attack.
Kirk was a prominent supporter of Donald Trump and had become one of the most influential conservative youth leaders in America. He co-founded TPUSA in 2012 together with businessman and activist Bill Montgomery, aiming to promote conservative ideas, free markets, limited government, and “traditional values” in schools, colleges, and universities.
Kirk had previously appeared at the Republican National Convention, where Trump and J.D. Vance were confirmed as the party’s candidates for president and vice president. Trump himself credited Kirk with helping to mobilize and win the support of young voters.
