Right-wing political commentator Charlie Kirk was killed during an event at Utah Valley University.
According to reports, security at the event was minimal, which was consistent with how Kirk’s events were typically organised. Students who confided to agencies said that there were no metal detectors or bag checks. Some claimed tickets weren’t even checked. The security detail included six university police officers and private personnel.
Reports mentioned that as Kirk entered the venue, the crowd in the terraced courtyard applauded him. Students, including some protesters, gathered on balconies and rooftops to watch him.
Gunshots were heard when he was asked about mass shootings and was about to answer, claimed reports. Attendees frantically went for cover. Multiple witnesses said they saw Kirk bleeding profusely.
“We do know there was a shot fired from the top of the Losee Center,” UVU said in a statement. “Someone appeared to be at the top of that building or somewhere inside. We don’t know if they’ve been apprehended.”
Former Utah Congressman Jason Chaffetz, who attended the event, slammed authorities for the lack of proper protection. “Utah is one of the safest places on the planet,” he said. “And so we just don’t have these types of things.”
The news broke during a broadcast of The Megyn Kelly Show as she spoke with Glenn Beck, CEO of Blaze Media. “They are reporting that Charlie has died, that he’s dead, at the age of 31,” Kelly said tearfully. Beck covered his face, visibly emotional, and appeared to break down.
A person, who was taken into custody on suspicion of involvement in Kirk’s assassination, has been released, FBI director Kash Patel said.
A vocal supporter of US President Donald Trump, Kirk had a strong influence on young conservatives. Expectedly, his death has ignited widespread reaction across political and media circles.
Kirk was responsible for driving Donald Trump’s charisma among younger voters. He was credited for the Republican’s return to power last year.
He co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012, a group that spread conservative ideology among students. With natural stage presence, Kirk became a frequent guest on television networks and enjoyed massive followings on social media. His content often focused on anti-immigration messaging, gun rights, and public expressions of Christian faith. He regularly shared clipped videos of his campus confrontations to rally support.
President Donald Trump confirmed the death of the “great, and even legendary” Kirk, promising decisive action against those responsible.
“My administration will find each and every one of those who contributed to this atrocity and to other political violence, including the organisations that fund it and support it, as well as those who go after our judges, law enforcement officials, and everyone else who brings order to our country,” Trump said.
“This is a dark moment for America,” the President reportedly said from the Oval Office. He called Kirk “a martyr for truth and freedom.”
Kirk was brought up in Arlington Heights and Prospect Heights, two Chicago neighbourhoods. He became active in politics while still in high school. He rallied to protest a cafeteria price increase and volunteered for a Senate campaign. He attended Harper College after school but dedicated himself to full-time political involvement.
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