Daijiworld Media Network - Orem

Orem, Sep 11: Conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was tragically shot and killed on Wednesday, September 10, during a public speaking event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The incident occurred around 12:20 pm local time, approximately 20 minutes into a Q&A session attended by about 3,000 people.

Eyewitnesses reported that a single gunshot rang out from a nearby building, striking Kirk in the neck. He collapsed shortly thereafter and was rushed to Timpanogos Regional Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The FBI and Utah Department of Public Safety are leading the investigation, treating the shooting as a targeted political assassination.

Two individuals were briefly detained for questioning but have since been released without charges. Authorities have not yet apprehended the shooter, and a manhunt is ongoing.

President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk's death on social media, describing him as a "great American patriot" and ordering flags to be flown at half-staff in his honor. Utah Governor Spencer Cox also condemned the act as a "political assassination" and called it a "tragic day for our nation."

Kirk, 31, was a prominent figure in conservative circles and a vocal ally of President Trump. He founded Turning Point USA in 2012 and was known for his advocacy on college campuses and media appearances. His death has sent shockwaves through the political community, with leaders across the spectrum expressing condolences and condemning the violence.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.