Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was fatally shot during a speaking event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday afternoon, sparking chaos on campus and a nationwide manhunt for the gunman. He was 31.
According to witnesses, Kirk was answering questions from the audience when a single bullet struck him in the neck. He collapsed instantly as students screamed and rushed for safety. Security personnel and attendees attempted to provide first aid before he was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died.
Kirk, a father of two, was known for his outspoken conservative views and combative debates on college campuses. He is survived by his wife, Erika Frantzve, their three-year-old daughter, and 16-month-old son. The couple had celebrated their fourth wedding anniversary earlier this year.
The shooting occurred about 20 minutes into Kirk’s “American Comeback” tour event. Witnesses said the commentator had just responded to a question on mass shootings when the gunfire rang out.
“Counting or not counting gang violence?” Kirk asked, lowering his microphone—moments before the shot struck him.
Utah Valley University officials reported that the gunfire came from the rooftop of the Losee Center, roughly 200 yards from where Kirk was seated under a tented gazebo. Police initially detained an elderly man, who was later released after being cleared of involvement.
The FBI and Utah law enforcement have launched a large-scale search for the shooter, though no arrests have yet been made.
Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum. Former President Donald Trump mourned Kirk in a statement on Truth Social, calling him “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk.”
“He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us,” Trump wrote. “Melania and my sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”
