Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Conservative political activist and commentator Charlie Kirk has died after being shot during a public event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. He was 31 years old.
Kirk, the founder and CEO of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, was speaking to a student audience as part of his nationwide “American Comeback Tour” when a single bullet struck him in the neck. The shot caused him to collapse immediately, and emergency medical personnel rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Witnesses at the scene described widespread panic as the crowd of mostly college students screamed and scattered for cover. The gunfire reportedly came from the top of the nearby Losee Center building, roughly 200 yards from where Kirk was seated under a tented gazebo.
Initial reports indicated that police detained an elderly man near the scene, but authorities later confirmed that he was not the shooter. The gunman remains at large, and a large-scale manhunt is currently underway involving local law enforcement and federal agencies. Haunting video has revealed a figure lying flat on a rooftop just moments before Charlie Kirk was fatally shot – then frantically fleeing as chaos erupted at the Utah event.
Kirk was answering a question about mass shootings moments before the attack. Disturbing video footage captured the moment he was struck, showing his head snap backward as he collapsed. Bystanders and security quickly rushed to assist him as blood pooled around the area.
The university immediately evacuated the campus and canceled all classes until further notice. Officials have not commented on any prior threats or security lapses, though some students expressed concerns about the lack of metal detectors at the venue.
Charlie Kirk rose to national prominence as a fierce proponent of conservative values and an unapologetic supporter of former President Donald Trump. He built a large following among young voters and regularly appeared on conservative media platforms. Known for his combative style during campus debates, he became a central figure in the culture wars surrounding free speech and political ideology in American universities.
He is survived by his wife, Erika Frantzve, and their two young children. The couple had recently celebrated their fourth wedding anniversary. Kirk was remembered by supporters and political allies as a passionate voice for conservative youth and a dedicated father.
Leaders across the political spectrum have expressed shock and condemnation following the killing, calling for unity in the face of escalating political violence. The investigation remains ongoing.
