Charlie Kirk, the conservative political activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed on Wednesday during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University. He was 31.
President Donald Trump announced the news on his Truth Social platform, describing Kirk as a key figure in the Republican Party’s populist turn in the social media era.
Kirk rose to prominence in the aftermath of the Tea Party movement, his influence growing alongside Trump’s political ascent. In 2012, at the age of 18, he co-founded Turning Point USA, an organisation aimed at mobilising young conservative voters. Through a network of non-profits, he sought to increase turnout on university campuses and in churches in support of Trump’s 2024 campaign.
Known for his combative style, Kirk regularly toured American colleges, engaging in question-and-answer sessions that often went viral online. Wednesday’s appearance in Orem, Utah, was the opening event of a planned 14-city autumn “American Comeback Tour”.
Witnesses reported that Kirk was answering a question when a single gunshot was heard. Video footage from the scene shows the audience screaming as Kirk recoiled and appeared to clutch his neck. Former US Representative Jason Chaffetz, who was present with family members, said Kirk had been energising the crowd before taking questions. “I saw him fall immediately backwards to his left,” Chaffetz told Fox News.
The tour featured Kirk’s trademark “Prove Me Wrong Table”, inviting those with opposing views to debate him publicly.
In addition to his activism, Kirk was an author and hosted a daily three-hour radio programme. He travelled with private security, according to a Turning Point USA aide, whether addressing large rallies or smaller gatherings.
Trump credited Kirk with helping to galvanise the youth vote, noting his recent visit to the Oval Office in May for the swearing-in of Judge Jeanine Pirro. Messages of condolence and calls for prayer were posted online by political allies and opponents alike.
Born in Illinois, Kirk married Erika Frantzve in 2021. The couple had two young children.
Police have not confirmed whether a suspect is in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.
