A national manhunt is underway following the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
Kirk, 31, cofounder of Turning Point USA and a close ally of former President Donald Trump, was addressing an estimated crowd of 3,000 people at an open-air event on campus when a single gunshot struck him in the neck. Emergency responders rushed him to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after.
The shocking incident sent ripples through political circles and prompted an outpouring of tributes and outrage from conservative leaders. Within hours, Trump confirmed Kirk’s death on his Truth Social platform.
Confusion Surrounds Investigation
In the immediate aftermath, law enforcement efforts to identify and apprehend the shooter were marred by conflicting reports. Authorities initially detained a suspect, but that individual was released after being charged only with obstruction of justice. A second person was later taken into custody and also released.
Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason said surveillance footage captured a possible suspect dressed in dark clothing firing from a rooftop near the venue. The footage is now central to the ongoing investigation.
Trump Reacts
On Wednesday evening, Trump released a video statement from the White House, directly blaming what he called the “radical left” for creating the environment that led to the attack.
“We will find each and every one of those who contributed to this atrocity — including the organizations that fund and promote political violence,” Trump declared.
Kirk was known for his provocative political views, vocal support of Trump, and efforts to galvanize young conservatives through his organization Turning Point USA. His death has reignited national debates over political extremism, free speech, and security at public events.
Law enforcement agencies continue to search for the suspect as tributes pour in from across the political spectrum.
