Republican Sen. Mike Lee of Utah shared a screenshot of the last text message he received from Charlie Kirk.

“This is Charlie’s last text to me yesterday as he was heading to his event at UVU,” Lee wrote in a post on X, referring to Utah Valley University. “So tragic.”

The lawmaker included a screenshot of what appears to be two text messages from Kirk.

“Thank you so much. Just landed,” the first text bubble reads, followed by another that says, “Event I think is going to be a win.”

Lee announced that he has put forward a Senate resolution to honor Kirk, noting in a Thursday post on X, “I introduced a Senate resolution honoring Charlie Kirk this morning.”

The senator shared the text
of the measure, which would declare that the Senate “condemns the assassination of Charlie Kirk in the strongest possible terms,” “extends its deepest condolences and sympathies to Charlie Kirk’s family,” and “honors Charlie Kirk’s commitment to the constitutional principles of civil discussion and debate between all people of the United States, regardless of political affiliation.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu mourned the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Thursday.

Netanyahu appeared on Fox News and recounted his interactions with Kirk one of his visits to Israel.

“First just let me say that we are just heartbroken, myself, my wife. My son, actually, during his 2019 visit to Israel had lunch with him and his wife, Erika. We’re shattered,” Netanyahu said.

“He wrote me a letter on May 2nd this year. He said, ‘One of my greatest joys as a Christian is advocating for Israel and forming alliances to defend Judeo-Christian civilization,'” he said.

Netanyahu said he called Kirk after receiving the letter earlier this year and invited him to come to Israel again.

“Sadly that visit will not take place, but he was a defender of our common Judeo-Christian values. He was incredibly excited to walk in the footsteps of Jesus here. He valued our bond. The bond between America and Israel.”

Investigators have uncovered what appear to be messages on both the ammunition and the firearm recovered at the scene of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, multiple sources told Fox News.

Authorities found the rifle believed to be used to murder Kirk at his Utah Valley University event on Wednesday. They recovered the rifle in the woods near the scene of the shooting, along a path they believe the shooter used to escape.

The FBI has declined to comment on reports of the messages.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls said authorities recovered “good video footage” of the shooter on UVU’s campus. He said the shooter appeared to be “of college age,” but declined to offer further details.

Fox News’ David Spunt and Bill Melugin contributed to this report.

Republican Rep. Eli Crane of Arizona, who is a former Navy SEAL, described conservative activist Charlie Kirk as “one of the smartest” and “one of the most courageous” men he’s “ever met.”

Kirk was assassinated in Utah on Wednesday.

“Yesterday was a very rough day for a lot of the country, and me personally. Charlie Kirk had become a friend and mentor in ways,” the congressman noted in part of a post on X. “He was not afraid to continually share his faith and beliefs. He was not afraid to debate anyone at any time, and for those keeping score, he usually won.”

“I am disgusted and hurt by the murder of my friend. I’m also saddened that my children and yours must grow up in this world with so much wickedness and evil,” he stated.

Crane included a photo of himself and Kirk.

He urged prayer for Kirk’s widow and children.

“Let us keep his wife and children in prayer for peace that surpasses all understanding and enough love to comfort them in this time,” the congressman wrote.

As law enforcement officials continue searching for the person behind the assassination of 31-year-old Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, witnesses describe a scene with minimal security at the event on the campus of Utah Valley University (UVU) when the shooting took place.

“There were not a lot of cops there. I’ve seen more cops at UVU for sporting events than right now,” a witness identified as Sam, who said he was a local high school student, told KUTV. Sam also wondered why there weren’t stricter security measures, such as bag checks before the event.

“They had cops above on the walkways who were stopping — what I assume — people from throwing stuff down towards him. So, I wonder why there wasn’t any level of security taken to stop people around, like, in front of him or anything like that,” he added.

Kirk, who famously went to college campuses across the country to discuss politics with and debate young people, was fatally shot during an event at UVU on Wednesday afternoon. While an individual initially believed to be the shooter
was taken into custody, authorities later determined that the person was not connected to the shooting.

Cooper Brown, who was managing the microphone at Kirk’s event, spoke with “Fox & Friends First” on Thursday morning about what he saw.

“Unfortunately, very, very soon after the question and answering started, I heard a very loud pop and I looked to my right and see Charlie Kirk, his body shake and blood begin to pour down from the side of his neck,” Brown said.

This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News’ Rachel Wolf

Republican Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana indicated that he will leverage all of the power and influence he can bring to bear to target those who have “belittled” and “celebrated” the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

The congressman indicated that he will push for the permanent social media deplatforming of such individuals and go after their businesses.

“I’m going to use Congressional authority and every influence with big tech platforms to mandate immediate ban for life of every post or commenter that belittled the assassination of Charlie Kirk,” Higgins asserted in the post on X. “If they ran their mouth with their smartass hatred celebrating the heinous murder of that beautiful young man who dedicated his whole life to delivering respectful conservative truth into the hearts of liberal enclave universities, armed only with a Bible and a microphone and a Constitution… those profiles must come down,” he continued.

“So, I’m going to lean forward in this fight, demanding that big tech have zero tolerance for violent political hate content, the user to be banned from ALL PLATFORMS FOREVER,” he added.

Higgins even said that their drivers licenses should be yanked.

“I’m also going after their business licenses and permitting, their businesses will be blacklisted aggressively, they should be kicked from every school, and their drivers licenses should be revoked. I’m basically going to cancel with extreme prejudice these evil, sick animals who celebrated Charlie Kirk’s assassination,” he declared in the post on Thursday.

“I’m starting that today. That is all,” he concluded.

The FBI called for public submissions of photos or videos from the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk.

“If you have any video or images from the shooting we ask you to please submit them,” FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls said Thursday during a press conference. Bohls added that so far the FBI has received more than 130 tips.

Individuals with relevant information can submit via an online page on the FBI’s website. The one-page form requests contact details, a description of what was submitted, and the files themselves.

People can also call 1-800-CALL-FBI if they have tips.

“We truly rely on the publics help on these types of cases. No tip is too small or too insignificant,” he added.

President Donald Trump will posthumously award conservative activist Charlie Kirk with a Medal of Freedom, he announced Thursday.

Trump hailed Kirk as a “giant of his generation” and a “champion of liberty” during a 9/11 memorial on Thursday.

“I’m pleased to announce that I will soon be awarding Charlie Kirk, posthumously, the Presidential Medal of Freedom,” Trump said.

Trump did not announce the date of the ceremony but predicted that there would be a “very big crowd.”

Kirk was assassinated while speaking to college students at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. The shooter still has not been apprehended.

Investigators believe the Charlie Kirk’s assassin is “of college age,” the FBI and Utah authorities said in a Thursday press conference.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls and Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason said they obtained “good video footage” of the shooter while he was on the Utah Valley University Campus.

They said the shooter arrived to the campus at 11:52 a.m. Wednesday and shot Kirk roughly 30 minutes later. He then jumped off the building he used as a firing position and ran into a nearby neighborhood, investigators said.

Authorities have recovered what they believe to be the firearm used to assassinate conservative activist Charlie Kirk, the FBI announced Thursday.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls made the announcement during a Thursday morning press conference at Utah Valley University.

The weapon “is a high powered bolt action rifle. That rifle was recovered in a wooded area where the shooter had fled. So the FBI laboratory will be analyzing this weapon. Investigators have also collected footwear, the impression of a palm print and forearm imprints for analysis,” Bohls said.

“We are not sure how far he has gone,” Bohls added about the assassin.

Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason confirmed that the shooter appeared to be “of college age,” but he declined to offer more identifying details.

Mason said footage from the campus showed the shooter climbed to the roof of a building overlooking Kirk’s event. He then jumped from the building and fled to a nearby neighborhood after the shooting.

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard called the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk “evil” and said that it “is the very definition of terrorism.”

“The person who shot Charlie Kirk sought to silence him, using violence to take away his freedom of speech by ending his life and to terrorize those who think like Charlie into silence. This evil act is the very definition of terrorism: an unlawful use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political or ‘religious’ aims,” she declared in part of a lengthy Thursday post on X.

Kirk was killed on Wednesday, the day before the grim anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks.

“Today, on the anniversary of 9/11, we recognize that whether it’s Islamists like al-Qaeda, or the fanatics who try to stop Charlie Kirk
and others from speaking the truth by banning them from campuses and ultimately by assassination, the one thing they have in common is that they are so afraid that their arguments, views, and policies will not stand when challenged in free and open debate, that they resort to violence — not only to silence the people they want to shut up but to terrorize everyone else into silence,” she wrote.

“Charlie Kirk stood up to such fanatics who hate freedom and want to silence any who dare to challenge the so-called ‘liberal’ establishment. This assassin killed him to prevent his voice from being heard, prevent him from inspiring others, as he did every day, and to terrorize and intimidate the American people into silence,” she asserted.

In the post, Gabbard included several photos of herself with Kirk.

“Charlie truly loved our country and dedicated his life to protecting our God-given rights. We must honor his life’s work, and the promise of America, by continuing to lift our own voices and defend our God-given freedoms enshrined in our Constitution,” she declared.

The suspect who shot and killed conservative activist Charlie Kirk remains on the run Thursday as investigators said they are analyzing security footage of a mystery individual “dressed in all dark clothing.”

Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was struck with a single bullet around 12:20 p.m. local time Wednesday while speaking at an event on the campus of Utah Valley University in Orem.

“The only information we have on the suspect, the possible shooter, is taken from closed-circuit TV here on campus,” Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason said Wednesday. 

“We do have that. We’re analyzing it. But it is security camera footage, so you can kind of guess what the quality of that is,” he added. “But we do know, dressed in all dark clothing. But we don’t have a much better description other than that.” 

The Utah Department of Public Safety said that Kirk, after being shot, was rushed to Timpanogos Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. 

“This shooting is still an active investigation,” the agency said in a statement. “The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are co-leading this incident in unison with the Utah County Attorney’s office, the Utah County Sheriff’s office, and the local police departments.” 

“DPS’s State Crime Lab, along with all law enforcement involved, are working multiple active crime scenes. These were identified based on where the victim was shot, as well as the locations where the suspect and victim traveled,” the statement continued. 

This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News’ Greg Norman

Cooper Brown of the Leadership Institute recounted the “graphic” sight of blood pouring from conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s neck at Utah Valley University after the fatal shooting that ultimately claimed the conservative juggernaut’s life.

During an appearance on “Fox & Friends First,” Brown recounted that after hearing a “very, very loud pop,” he saw Kirk’s “body shake, and blood” start pouring “down from … the side of his neck.”

Brown had previously appeared on “Jesse Watters Primetime” and recounted that he saw “blood … pour from” Kirk’s “neck … in a very, very graphic way.”

The FBI and Utah Department of Public Safety held a press conference Thursday morning updating the public on the manhunt for the suspect in Charlie Kirk’s assassination.

The FBI Special Agent in Charge for the investigation spoke at the event alongside Utah DPS Commissioner Beau Mason.

Mason said the shooter arrived to the Utah Valley University Campus at 11:52 a.m. ahead of the shooting. He confirmed that law enforcement has “good video footage” of the shooter, who he said fled into a nearby neighborhood after the assassination.

“After the shooting, we were able to track his movements as he moved to the other side of the building, jumped off of the building and fled, off of the campus and into a neighborhood,” Mason said.

There have been few updates on the manhunt since Wednesday evening, when authorities confirmed that two separate individuals had been detained for questioning after the shooting but were subsequently released.

Police say they have obtained security camera footage from the Utah Valley University campus showing a suspect dressed in all black.

Former NFL star Tim Tebow
warned that “evil is real” in the wake of a shooting at a college campus in Utah that left conservative influencer Charlie Kirk dead on Wednesday.

Tebow was among the voices in the sports world who made posts on social media remember Kirk.

“Evil is real. There is no doubt, the enemy is hard at work,” Tebow wrote on X. “These last few days, the weight of evil has been heavy across our nation. But this I know: It will not have the final word. One day, God will make all things right.

“Until then, we pray. We weep with those who weep. And we keep fighting, knowing the victory has already been won.”

The Heisman Trophy winner and college football national champion added that he was praying for Kirk’s family in the wake of the shooting.

“I’m shocked and devastated to learn about the passing of Charlie Kirk.  Above all else, Charlie was a follower of Jesus, a husband, and a dad. He was a man of passion, courage, and devotion to making an eternal impact. 

“Demi and I are praying for Erika, his two children, and everyone who loved him.”

This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News’ Ryan Gaydos

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk spoke out about the horrific slaying of Iryna Zarutska in a video shared to social media this week before Kirk was shockingly assassinated in Utah.

“Say the name Iryna Zarutska,” Kirk said in a video.

Zarutska was brutally murdered last month while on a light rail in North Carolina.

“And a terrible person — well, you saw what happened. I can’t describe it here on TikTok without some sort of community guideline being violated. But if you haven’t seen the video, you absolutely should,” Kirk said, adding that the suspect, who had prior arrests, should not have been walking free. “And it really makes you wonder, why are we putting up with this?”

“What was the difference between George Floyd and Iryna Zarutska? Why did the left care so much about George Floyd, and they couldn’t care less about Iryna Zarutska? What could the difference be? I wonder,” he said, inviting people to leave comments.

Mainstream media pundits eulogized the “controversial” and “divisive” Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk after he was the victim of a political assassination on Wednesday.

Kirk, the founder of one of the most influential political organizations in the country, was shot while holding an event on the campus of Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. He later died of his wound, leaving the country reeling from another act of horrific political violence.

As facts of the shooting were being gathered, anchors and guests on MSNBC, CNN and ABC were quick to point out Kirk’s “divisive” politics.

“Charlie Kirk is a divisive figure, a polarizing lightning rod, whatever term you want to use,” MSNBC host Katy Tur said on her show “Katy Tur Reports.”

On “CNN News Central,” CNN anchor and chief legal strategist Laura Coates said, “If this is in fact tied to his political ideology, given the fact that he is quite the lightning rod in many communities and has been accessible, and yet controversial, you‘ve got a very terrifying prospect for so many people who share his similar qualities.”

“It’s no secret that Charlie Kirk has said a number of controversial things over the years, in particular about DEI, Jews, women, LGBTQ community, people of color,” ABC News’ Kyra Phillips said.

A New York Times headline used passive language of “dies” rather than he was murdered. 

MSNBC analyst Matthew Dowd
went as far as to suggest Kirk’s “hateful” words influenced the shooting, claiming that it could have been caused by “a supporter shooting their gun off in celebration.”

“He has been one of the most divisive, especially divisive, younger figures in this, who is constantly sort of pushing this sort of hate speech or sort of aimed at certain groups. And I always go back to ‘hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions,’” Dowd said.

Dowd was later fired for his comments.

Fox News’ Lindsay Kornick contributed to this report.

Vice President JD Vance and the second lady diverted their travel plans to Salt Lake City, Utah in order to pay their respects to the family of Charlie Kirk
on Thursday, Fox News Digital has learned.

The vice president had initially been scheduled to travel to New York City. Kirk was assassinated while speaking to college students at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. He was shot by an unknown assailant before being pronounced dead at the hospital.

Vance mourned Kirk’s passing in a lengthy post on social media Wednesday night, calling the conservative icon a “true friend” and a “family man.”

Fox News’ Erin McEwan contributed to this report.

Video obtained by Fox News Digital shows the moments before Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was assassinated.

Kirk was murdered on Wednesday afternoon during a campus event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.

A university spokesperson told Fox News Digital the shooting happened at about 12:20 p.m. The TPUSA founder was taken to a local hospital in critical condition after being shot. He died at the hospital.

While the FBI previously said a subject was in custody, the individual was later released after interrogation.

Prior to the shooting, people could be seen crowding around a white tent with text reading “THE AMERICAN COMEBACK” and “PROVE ME WRONG.” An event organizer told Fox News Digital around 1,400 people RSVP’ed for the event, with people from “many states” in attendance.

The video showed people scrambling to leave after the shot was fired.

Joey Gallegos, a Utah Valley University student who was at the event, told Fox News Digital “everyone decided to run like out of the courtyard,” adding that people were “tripping over each other and trying to jump over the barricade.”

Samuel Lino, a volunteer at the event, told Fox News Digital that Kirk met with people working the event before it started and was “super excited to talk to Utah Valley University.”

This is an excerpt from an article by Fox News’ Adam Sabes and Sarah Rumpf-Whitten

MSNBC has fired political analyst Matthew Dowd for suggesting “hateful” rhetoric from Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk led to his own assassination, two sources familiar with the matter told Fox News Digital. 

The network previously denounced Dowd’s comments on social media. 

“During our breaking news coverage of the shooting of Charlie Kirk
, Matthew Dowd made comments that were inappropriate, insensitive and unacceptable,” MSNBC President Rebecca Kutler said in a statement. “We apologize for his statements, as has he. There is no place for violence in America, political or otherwise.”

A spokesperson for MSNBC declined to comment. Dowd joined MSNBC in 2022 after a long stint at ABC News.

After Kirk was shot Wednesday afternoon, Dowd suggested it was caused by a chain reaction from his “hateful words” against various groups. Kirk, a leading conservative activist and top ally of President Donald Trump, later died at the age of 31.

Before the news that Kirk had died, Dowd told MSNBC host Katy Tur, “We don’t know any of the full details of this yet. We don’t know if this was a supporter shooting their gun off in celebration.”

Dowd said Kirk has been “one of the most divisive, especially divisive younger figures in this, who is constantly sort of pushing this sort of hate speech or sort of aimed at certain groups. And I always go back to, hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions.”

“I think that’s the environment we’re in, that the people just — you can’t stop with these sort of awful thoughts you have, and then saying these awful words, and not expect awful actions to take place. And that’s the unfortunate environment we’re in,” he added.

Dowd tried to backtrack on the liberal social media platform Bluesky.

“On an earlier appearance on MSNBC I was asked a question on the environment we are in. I apologize for my tone and words. Let me be clear, I in no way intended for my comments to blame Kirk for this horrendous attack. Let us all come together and condemn violence of any kind,” Dowd wrote.

Fox News’ Brian Flood and Alexander Hall contributed to this report.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, condemned the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk as “sick and reprehensible.”

“We should all feel a deep sense of grief and outrage at the terrible violence that took place in Utah today. Charlie Kirk’s murder is sick and reprehensible, and our thoughts are with his family, children, and loved ones,” Newsom declared in a statement.

“I knew Charlie, and I admired his passion and commitment to debate. His senseless murder is a reminder of how important it is for all of us, across the political spectrum, to foster genuine discourse on issues that deeply affect us all without resorting to political violence,” Newsom continued.

“The best way to honor Charlie’s memory is to continue his work: engage with each other, across ideology, through spirited discourse. In a democracy, ideas are tested through words and good-faith debate — never through violence,” the governor added. “Honest disagreement makes us stronger; violence only drives us further apart and corrodes the values at the heart of this nation.”

Kirk spoke with Newsom as the first guest on the governor’s “This is Gavin Newsom” podcast earlier this year.

“Unsurprisingly, Newsom is charming and friendly in-person,” Kirk wrote in an opinion piece after appearing on the podcast. “You don’t become governor of 40 million people without having some charisma. But there’s clearly a layer beneath the charm. I saw that Newsom wants to be president more than any living person (and possibly every dead person, too). He is an ambitious man, and his new podcast is clearly a product of that ambition.”

Vice President JD Vance shared a deeply personal remembrance of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University.

In a lengthy post on X, Vance honored his late friend as a man of “courage,” “faith” and profound loyalty.

“Charlie was fascinated by ideas and always willing to learn and change his mind,” wrote the vice president. “Like me, he was skeptical of Donald Trump in 2016. Like me, he came to see President Trump as the only figure capable of moving American politics away from the globalism that had dominated for our entire lives.”

“Charlie was one of the first people I called when I thought about running for senate in early 2021. We talked through everything, from the strategy to the fundraising to the grassroots of the movement he knew so well. He introduced me to some of the people who would run my campaign and also to Donald Trump Jr.”

Kirk, a longtime advocate for young people in the conservative movement, was described by Vance as pivotal to President Trump’s decision-making process in his selection as running mate in 2024.

“When I became the VP nominee—something Charlie advocated for both in public and private—Charlie was there for me… Charlie was constantly calling and texting, checking on our family and offering guidance and prayers,” Vance added.

In the wake of the shocking assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Republican Rep. Eric Burlison of Missouri asserted that “Charlie Kirk should lie in rest in the Capitol Rotunda.”

“America has done this before for private citizens like Rev. Billy Graham,” the congressman added in his post on X.

Graham lay in honor in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda following his death in 2018.

The congressman continued, “@realDonaldTrump can make it happen. And as I reflect on his impact I have to come to the conclusion that no one has had a greater impact on the political climate of the United States for the last decade than Charlie Kirk,” Burlison wrote.

A document from the Architect of the Capitol states, “The Rotunda of the United States Capitol, completed in 1824, has historically been considered the most suitable place for the nation to pay final tribute to its most eminent citizens by having their remains lie in state (in the case of government officials and military officers) or in honor (in the case of private citizens). These occasions are either authorized by a congressional resolution or approved by the congressional leadership, when permission is granted by survivors.”

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., issued a plea on X for Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg and TikTok to “remove the horrifying videos of Charlie Kirk’s murder.”

“He has a family, young children, and no one should be forced to relive this tragedy online,” Luna wrote. “These are not the only graphic videos of horrifying murders circulating — at some point, social media begins to desensitize humanity. We must still value life. Please take them down.”

“Thank you!!! I agree completely!” responded Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo.

Kirk was shot at Utah Valley University while speaking at an event on campus on Wednesday.

“The FBI is working alongside our local and state law enforcement partners in Utah to fully investigate and seek justice in the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University,” the agency said late Wednesday. “Anyone with information, photos, and video from the incident can help the FBI identity more answers by sharing the files.”

House Speaker Mike Johnson warned that America’s “toxic” politics are fueling violence in the wake of Charlie Kirk’s death.

“We have to call out political violence. I think there is a recognition. Some are saying it openly, some more quietly that the vitriol, the level that is there. Now, the hatred that has been fomented, you know, there’s a time that we’ve got to turn the volume down,” Johnson said speaking to CNN.

He talked about Congress’ strong security protocols and the fact that members are increasingly nervous about being exposed in public, especially after after the campus shooting in Utah that left Kirk dead.

“What we have to recognize once more is that we are all fellow Americans,” Johnson said. “We should see one another as colleagues and fellow countrymen, not as enemies. That’s not what Charlie Kirk represented. He loved the debate because he genuinely loved the people.”

Johnson went on to confirm that as a result of the attack, lawmakers are requesting heightened security, calling it part of the “new realities” facing public figures.

“We have to take serious measures for serious times,” he added.

“There are deranged people in society, and if they are encouraged along this way, they will do dangerous things,” he warned.

Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk’s death sparked outpouring of grief from politicians, faith leaders, and activists condemning political violence.

Vigils were held across the country following the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at an event in Utah on Wednesday.

Kirk, the 31-year-old co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed on the campus of Utah Valley University on Wednesday afternoon.

He was transported to a hospital in critical condition before he was later pronounced dead. Politicians, faith leaders, fellow conservative activists and others mourned Kirk’s death, with some announcing vigils to stand against political violence in the wake of his murder.

This is an excerpt from a story by Fox News Digital’s Landon Mion.

The City of Beverly Hills condemned the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk on Wednesday, offering condolences to his family and friends.

“We are devastated by this tragic and senseless act of violence,” Beverly Hills Mayor Sharona Nazarian said. “Violence has no place in our country, and hate has no home in America.”

CHARLIE KIRK, TURNING POING USA FOUNDER, DEAD AT 31 AFTER UTAH CAMPUS SHOOTING

The city urged unity in the face of division: “Regardless of our political beliefs, we must stand together against extremism and reaffirm our commitment to civility, dialogue, and the value of every human life.”

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute announced it has postponed tonight’s planned conversation and book signing with Ben Shapiro following the tragic shooting of political activist Charlie Kirk in Utah.

In a statement, the foundation said: “The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute is saddened to hear of events that took place today at Utah Valley University. Our prayers are with Charlie Kirk’s family and friends. As a mark of respect, we are cancelling our program and book signing with Ben Shapiro this evening. A new date will be announced shortly.”

Outside the Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California, supporters gathered organically, holding American flags and handmade signs that read “STOP POLITICAL VIOLENCE – RIP CHARLIE” and “Pray for Charlie Kirk.”

Flowers and notes lined the entrance, with messages praising Kirk as a “wise, fair, passionate” leader who “welcomed open dialogue” and “sought God’s wisdom daily.”

Photos provided by the Reagan Foundation showed families, students, and local residents assembling quietly in tribute. Some carried Israeli and American flags, while others paused to pray.

A resurfaced video of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk is making the rounds online in the wake of his fatal shooting at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.

In the clip, Kirk pauses and then answers directly when asked how he would want to be remembered: “I want to be remembered for courage for my faith. That would be the most important thing. Most important thing is my faith.”

The short exchange has been widely shared since news of his death broke showing Kirk’s outspoken commitment to Christianity.

Kirk framed much of his political activism with Turning Point USA (TPUSA) as rooted in his faith, frequently citing the need for young people to embrace purpose and conviction in the public square.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt
posted a heartfelt tribute to the late Charlie Kirk on Wednesday, praising the co-founder and CEO of Turning Point USA as “one of the first people to believe in me.”

“When I ran for Congress at 23 years old, Charlie Kirk was one of the first people to believe in me and endorse my grassroots campaign,” wrote Leavitt. That’s because Charlie Kirk believed in the potential and promise of young people across our country, and he inspired millions of them to get involved in politics and fight for our nation’s conservative values.”

Leavitt first ran to represent New Hampshire’s first congressional district in 2022 before joining President Donald Trump’s re-election campaign.

“Charlie positively changed the course of American history, and his legacy will live on,” Leavitt added.

She closed by adding “I am praying that God covers Charlie’s wife, Erika, and their two beautiful children in His love. I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” John 11:25-26

The FBI said it has deployed full resources and will co-lead the investigation into the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, urging the public to share information, photos and video through its digital media tip line.

CHARLIE KIRK, TURNING POINT USA FOUNDER, DEAD AT 31 AFTER UTAH CAMPUS SHOOTING

“As soon as we heard about the shooting, special agents and personnel from the Salt Lake City Field Office responded immediately,” said Robert Bohls, the FBI’s Salt Lake City special agent in charge. “We have full resources devoted to this investigation, including tactical, operational, investigative and intelligence. To be clear, the FBI will fully support and co-lead this investigation alongside our partners.”

The agency said it is working with state and local law enforcement in Utah and asked anyone with potential evidence to submit it at tips.fbi.gov/digitalmedia/f4507712a3b2893.

Charlie Kirk’s visit to Utah Valley University on his “American Comeback” tour sparked fierce backlash online.

A Change.org petition, “Prevent Charlie Kirk from speaking at Utah Valley University,” racked up nearly 1,000 signatures ahead of the event.

The petition took aim at UVU’s own branding. “Utah Valley University’s tagline is ‘a place for you,’” it declared. “How then, can the university claim to represent inclusion and diversity by allowing an influencer like Charlie Kirk to have a platform?”

Supporters accused Kirk of undermining the campus environment. “As students at Utah Valley University, we have come to cherish an environment that strives for inclusivity and diversity. Yet, the planned speaking engagement of Charlie Kirk threatens this ideal,” the petition said.

Critics argued that hosting Kirk sent the wrong message: “Giving a platform to someone whose views are in direct opposition to these principles undermines UVU’s commitment to being ‘a place for you.’”

The petition has 943 signatures and has since been closed.

Rev. Franklin Graham, one of the nation’s most prominent Christian voices, told Fox News Digital that “America is mourning the loss of Charlie Kirk.”

“Our hearts break for his wife and family. He loved this country, loved God, and loved his family. He was a gifted and courageous communicator of truth. Even more importantly, Charlie Kirk was a passionate follower of the Lord Jesus Christ,” said Graham. 

Charlie Kirk leaves behind his wife, Erika, a 3-year-old daughter, and a 1-year-old son.“

He wasn’t afraid to talk to anyone about the issues our society is facing today—and he wasn’t ashamed to talk about his personal relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. He said in an interview that his salvation was ‘a gift that grows sweeter with time,’” said Graham. 

The president and CEO of Samaritan’s Purse and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association shared that he is appreciative of the work Charlie did to encourage, engage, and inform young college students across the nation. 

“His voice will be greatly missed, but I pray that God will raise up an army of young men and women like him who will stand up for the same important issues,” he added. 

Graham says Kirk lived boldly for Jesus Christ, who said, “’I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.’”

Daily Caller shared video Wednesday of Sen. Elizabeth Warren speaking outside the Capitol after the shooting of Charlie Kirk, zeroing in on gun violence.

“What Congress can do is gun safety and every time there’s a killing the Republicans say this is not the time to [talk] about gun safety, and yet we have to, as a nation, we have more gun deaths than most other nations,” Warren said.

“If the rest of the country would just follow the rules we follow in Massachusetts, we could reduce fatalities all over this country.”

Warren also pushed back on claims that legislation cannot solve the problem: “You can change whether or not they have a lethal weapon in their hands and the likelihood that they will be able to kill another person or to kill themselves goes up if they have a lethal weapon… Congress could change that and should change that.”

She closed with a warning: “If you’re alive and breathing in the United States right now, you understand that the risks have simply escalated. And the United States Congress could act and so far simply refuses.”

First lady Melania Trump offered her condolences to the Kirk family as Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk leaves behind his wife, Erika, a 3-year-old daughter, and a 1-year-old son.

“Charlie’s children will be raised with stories instead of memories, photographs instead of laughter, and silence where their father’s voice should have echoed,” wrote Mrs. Trump on X.

“Charlie Kirk’s life should serve as a symbolic reminder that compassionate awareness elevates family, love, and country,” she added.

The first lady’s comments come shortly after President Donald Trump released an Oval Office message on the assassination.

“He’s a martyr for truth and freedom,” said President Trump.

In August, Charlie Kirk posted a photo of the first lady wearing a crown in a fake Vanity Fair cover on X, writing, “We need to meme the cover into existence.”

Kai Trump, the granddaughter of President Donald Trump, was among the masses who reacted to the horrific shooting death of Charlie Kirk on Wednesday.

President Trump announced that Kirk had died after being shot at a speaking event at Utah Valley University. Video posted from the event appeared to show Kirk being shot as he spoke to a large crowd from under a white pop-up tent.

Kai Trump, who called Kirk a “close family friend,” couldn’t believe the news.

CHARLIE KIRK, TURNING POINT USA FOUNDER, DEAD AT 31 AFTER UTAH CAMPUS SHOOTING

“I am deeply saddened to hear the news about Charlie Kirk,” Trump posted on her Instagram Stories.

Read more about what Kai Trump said about Charlie Kirk’s death.

This is an excerpt from a story by Fox News Digital’s Scott Thompson.

Health and Human Services Sec. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. condemned the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, 31, on Wednesday, saying “once again, a bullet has silenced the most eloquent truth teller of an era.”

Kennedy, who has faced backlash of his own due to his controversial political stances, is the son of Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1968, and the nephew of President
John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963.

The killings were met with national and global shock, as millions mourned the loss of two leaders who symbolized democracy, youth and hope—while their deaths deepened political divisions.

“My dear friend Charlie Kirk was our country’s relentless and courageous crusader for free speech,” Kennedy wrote in a statement on X. “We pray for Erika and the children. Charlie is already in paradise with the angels. We ask his prayers for our country.”

HHS did not immediately respond to further inquiries from Fox News Digital.

President Donald Trump
mourned Charlie Kirk as a patriot and “martyr for truth and freedom,” condemning his assassination as a dark moment for America and blaming left-wing rhetoric and the media for fueling the political violence behind his killing.

Kirk was speaking at Utah Valley University when the sound of a single shot rang across a large crowd, striking the Turning Point USA founder.

While speaking from the Oval Office on Wednesday night in a video posted to Truth Social, Trump said he was filled with grief and anger over the “heinous assassination” of Kirk.

CHARLIE KIRK, TURNING POINT USA FOUNDER, DEAD AT 31 AFTER UTAH CAMPUS SHOOTING

“Charlie inspired millions, and tonight, all who knew him and loved him are united in shock and horror. Charlie was a patriot who devoted his life to the cause of open debate and the country that he loved so much, the United States of America,” Trump said. “He fought for liberty, democracy, justice, and the American people. He’s a martyr for truth and freedom. And there’s never been anyone who was so respected by youth.”

The president also called Kirk a man of deep faith, adding that he takes comfort knowing that Kirk is at peace with God in Heaven.

“This is a dark moment for America. Charlie Kirk traveled the nation, joyfully engaging with everyone interested in good-faith debate. His mission was to bring young people into the political process, which he did better than anybody. To share his love of country and to spread the simple words of common sense,” Trump said.

“It’s a long past time for all Americans and the media to confront the fact that violence and murder are the tragic consequence of demonizing those with whom you disagree day after day, year after year, in the most hateful and despicable way possible,” he continued. “For years, those on the radical left have compared wonderful Americans like Charlie to Nazis and the world’s worst mass murderers and criminals. This kind of rhetoric is directly responsible for the terrorism that we’re seeing in our country today, and it must stop right now.

“My administration will find each and every one of those who contributed to this atrocity and to other political violence, including the organizations that fund it and support it, as well as those who go after our judges, law enforcement officials, and everyone else who brings order to our country,” Trump added. “From the attack on my life in Butler, Pennsylvania last year, which killed a husband and father, to the attacks on ice agents; to the vicious murder of a healthcare executive in the streets of New York, to the shooting of House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and three others. Radical left political violence has hurt too many innocent people and taken too many lives.”

Utah Valley University’s own police chief acknowledged his department failed to fully secure the campus before conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot during a speech in Orem on Wednesday.

Six UVU officers were assigned to the event, along with Kirk’s personal security team and plainclothes officers in the crowd, according to reporting from FOX13.

“You try to get your bases covered and, unfortunately, today we didn’t,” Chief Jeff Long admitted in a briefing. “And because of that, we had this tragic incident.”

The packed crowd of more than 3,000 students and community members scattered in panic after Kirk was reportedly shot from afar.

Utah Valley University President Astrid Tuminez offered her condolences to the Kirk family and those who witnessed the shooting in a statement sent to Fox News Digital, noting the university is a place to debate “openly and respectfully.”

“On behalf of Utah Valley University, we are shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Charlie Kirk,” Tuminez wrote in the statement. “We express our sincere condolences to the Kirk family. We grieve with our students, faculty, and staff who bore witness to this unspeakable tragedy.”

She noted Kirk was invited by a Turning Point USA student group to speak on campus, and expressed the school’s commitment to the sharing of ideas without violence.

“We firmly believe that UVU is a place to share ideas and to debate openly and respectfully. Any attempt to infringe on those rights has no place here,” Tuminez wrote. “We do not condone any form of violence at UVU and seek to make our campus a safe place for all.”

Lawmakers reacted with shock and grief to the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk
, with Democrats condemning political violence, Republicans praising his conservative legacy, and some blaming the media and partisan rhetoric for fueling an environment of escalating threats.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., described Kirk as a friend while praising his Christian faith and influence on young conservatives.

“Charlie Kirk leaves a huge legacy. It’s going to be hard for anybody to fill his shoes. He’s extremely important,” Greene said. “Students all over the country would get very excited if they found out he was coming to their college campus. He brought in thousands of people to hear him speak. Even people that didn’t agree with him would come, ask questions, even argue with him. He was always about the debate.”

CHARLIE KIRK, TURNING POING USA FOUNDER, DEAD AT 31 AFTER UTAH CAMPUS SHOOTING

She also said Kirk’s murder was “shocking, devastating and horrific.”

“I believe today he was killed for the words that he says and the things that he stood for, and we’re honestly shocked, we’re devastated, shocked and angry and those are just natural feelings,” Greene said. “Charlie Kirk was a friend. He was a good friend…I mean, he’s not much older than my oldest daughter. But, I just think it’s really honestly horrific.”

Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., condemned the shooting as “awful.”

“There’s no room for political violence in our country…we can’t normalize political violence,” he said.

Another lawmaker who weighed in was Rep. Derrick Van Orden, R-Wis.,  who blamed the media and Democrats for fueling political violence.

“This didn’t have to happen,” he said. “But it happened because of the violent political rhetoric coming out of the left being amplified by you people in the press. You are partially responsible for this.”

World leaders on Wednesday reacted
to the news of Charlie Kirk’s assassination during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University, sharing their condolences and stressing the importance of free speech in a democracy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was among the first to share his grief on social media, saying Kirk was “murdered for speaking truth and defending freedom.”

“A lion-hearted friend of Israel, he fought the lies and stood tall for Judeo-Christian civilization,” Netanyahu said, noting met with Kirk two weeks ago and invited him to Israel. “Sadly, that visit will not take place. We lost an incredible human being,” Netanyahu added. “His boundless pride in America and his valiant belief in free speech will leave a lasting impact. Rest in peace, Charlie Kirk.”

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer
expressed his condolences and said there should be free debate.

“It is heartbreaking that a young family has been robbed of a father and a husband,” Starmer said. “We must all be free to debate openly and freely without fear – there can be no justification for political violence.”

New Zealand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Winston Peters, noted Kirk’s death is not merely “political violence” but “an assassination.”

“The utter tragedy is that Kirk traveled extensively around university campuses to give an open mic and debate to everyone – and all were welcome,” Peters said. “The essence of democracy is under threat around the world and we must do everything we can to protect it.”

Fox News Digital’s Caitlin McFall contributed to this report.

Not everyone is offering prayers in the wake of the shooting death of conservative commentator and father-of-two Charlie Kirk.

Left-wing media outlet Occupy Democrats posted a searing reel on Instagram, saying, “Charlie Kirk spent his entire life disparaging immigrants, disrespecting women, and blaming Black folks, only to get shot in one of the whitest places on earth.”

The post currently has nearly 8,000 likes on the Instagram app.

The horrific assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk Wednesday is the latest entry in a grim and growing tally of conservative figures and institutions being targeted for violence, vandalism and murder.

The fatal shooting follows a lengthy recent history of conservatives and Republicans facing violence, a Fox News Digital review of the last four years found, including two assassination attempts against President Donald Trump in a roughly two-month span in 2024.

CHARLIE KIRK, TURNING POINT USA FOUNDER, DEAD AT 31 AFTER UTAH CAMPUS SHOOTING

Kirk was speaking at Utah Valley University as part of his “American Comeback Tour” when shots rang out and he collapsed on stage. He was rushed to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The 31-year-old husband and father was a staunch ally of President Donald Trump’s, and toured the nation promoting right-of-center ideology to youths, most notably on college campuses. He founded his conservative group more than a dozen years ago.

Read more about conservatives being targeted for murder.

This is an excerpt from a story by Fox News Digital’s Emma Colton.

A request by Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., for a public prayer honoring Charlie Kirk on the House floor sparked objections from Democrats and a fiery exchange that forced Speaker Mike Johnson to call for order.

House Speaker Mike Johnson called on Boebert during proceedings on Wednesday, and she requested the House have a moment of prayer out loud in memory of Kirk and his family.

Boebert’s request was followed by objections from Democrats.

CHARLIE KIRK, TURNING POINT USA FOUNDER, DEAD AT 31 AFTER UTAH CAMPUS SHOOTING

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., was then heard shouting back at Democrats, saying, “Y’all caused this,” followed by an expletive.

Johnson  continued to call for order on the floor during the ordeal.

“The House will be in order,” Johnson said repeatedly.

He then assured Boebert that a moment of prayer would take place, but ultimately it did not.

When asked about the prayer by Fox News’ Jesse Watters, Johnson said, “It was a sad day on Capital Hill.”

He added that he led a prayer in the chamber, but when it came to a vocal prayer, House members argued instead.

Business leaders across industries expressed dismay and grief after the fatal shooting of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.

David Sacks, a venture capitalist and Trump’s artificial intelligence and crypto czar, called Kirk the “best of America.”

“My friend Charlie Kirk was the best of America. A self-made man, a young husband and father, and a patriot, he was relentlessly positive about the future,” Sacks wrote in an X post Wednesday evening.

Billionaire hedge fund manager and Pershing Square Capital CEO Bill Ackman wrote several posts on X in tribute to Kirk. 

“I fill incredibly privileged to have spent a day and shared a meal with @charliekirk this summer,” Kirk wrote, adding, “he was a giant of a man.”

The advocacy group connected to deceased billionaire philanthropist Foster Friess, who was an early funder and supporter of Turning Point USA, shared several pictures of Kirk on X.

“Erika, and the entire Kirk family are in our prayers,” Lynn Friess wrote adding, “we are devastated by this news.”

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent
, a Wall Street veteran, wrote on X that his heart is with Kirk’s loved ones “at this devastating time.”

“This inexcusable violence belongs nowhere in a civilized society. Charlie was a brave man, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a great patriot. Please join me in praying for his family and our country,” Bessent added.

This is an excerpt from a story from Fox Business Managing Editor Suzanne O’Halloran.

Argentine President Javier Milei issued an emotional message of condolence following the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

In a post on X, Milei praised Kirk as “a formidable communicator of the ideas of freedom and staunch defender of the West.”

The staunch libertarian didn’t stop there. He condemned what he described as “an atrocious crime” fueled by political violence, blasting the left as “a violent phenomenon full of hatred.”

“The left is always, at all times and places, a violent phenomenon full of hatred. The entire world lost an incredible human being,” Milei concluded.

The New York Yankees held a moment of silence ahead of Wednesday night’s game against the Detroit Tigers to honor conservative influencer Charlie Kirk. Kirk died after being shot at a speaking event in Utah earlier in the day.

The team displayed a photo of Kirk on their jumbotron ahead of the game with the message “remembering Charlie Kirk.”

“Before tonight’s game we held a moment of silence in memoriam of Charlie Kirk
. Kirk founded the youth activist group ‘Turning Point USA’ and had become a fixture on college campuses. Charlie Kirk, a husband and father of two children, was 31 years old,” the team said in a post on X.

“The conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA was declared dead shortly after being shot during a campus event at Utah Valley University,” the post added.

Fox News’ Jackson Thompson contributed to this report.

Former Democratic President Bill Clinton said on social media he was “saddened” and “angered” by Charlie Kirk’s murder.

“I hope we all go through some serious introspection and redouble our efforts to engage in debate passionately, yet peacefully,” Clinton wrote on X.

“Hillary and I are keeping Erika, their two young children, and their family in our prayers,” he added.

“Jesus defeated death so you can live,” wrote Charlie Kirk in one of his last X posts this past Saturday.

The Turning Point USA founder is dead after he was shot Thursday at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.

Kirk was a significant figure who inspired hundreds of young students, encouraging them not only in their political interests but also in leading lives guided by faith.

CHARLIE KIRK SHOOTING LEADS TO OUTPOURING FROM UTAH OFFICIALS, 2025 NOMS ON BOTH SIDES

He married former Miss Arizona USA Erika Frantzve in May 2021. The couple has two children, a 3-year-old daughter and a 1-year-old son.

Turning Point has a branch focused purely on faith, called TPUSA Faith, “dedicated to empowering Christians to put their faith into action.”

Read more about Kirk’s faith and legacy.

This is an excerpt from a story by Fox News Digital’s Ashley J. DiMella.

Former President George W. Bush condemned the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk, calling it a cold-blooded murder on a college campus and urging Americans to reject violence and embrace civility.

“Today, a young man was murdered in cold blood while expressing his political views,” Bush said on X. “It happened on a college campus, where the open exchange of opposing ideas should be sacrosanct.

“Violence and vitriol must be purged from the public square. Members of other political parties are not our enemies; they are our fellow citizens,” the former president continued. “May God bless Charlie Kirk and his family, and may God guide America toward civility.”

CHARLIE KIRK, TURNING POINT USA FOUNDER, DEAD AT 31 AFTER UTAH CAMPUS SHOOTING

Kirk was speaking at Utah Valley University on Wednesday afternoon when a single bullet rang out and struck him.

American flags in Orem, Utah, were lowered to half-staff as the city grappled with the shocking assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk.

Kirk, who had been speaking at an outdoor event on Utah Valley University’s campus in Orem, was fatally shot in the neck.

In the wake of Kirk’s death, President Donald Trump
also ordered U.S. flags across the nation to be flown at half-staff.

Fox News Digital’s Adam Sabes contributed to this report.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox
said a suspect in the shooting of Charlie Kirk on Wednesday is in custody, adding the murder was “a political assassination.”

“This is a dark day for our state. It’s a tragic day for our nation. I want to be very clear that this is a political assassination,” he said during a press conference. “We are celebrating 250 years of the founding of this great nation. That founding document, the Declaration of Independence, that this great experiment on which we embarked together 250 years ago, that we are endowed by our creator with certain inalienable rights.

“The first one of those is life, and today a life was taken,” Cox continued. “Charlie Kirk
was first and foremost a husband and a dad to young children. He was also very much politically involved and that’s why he was here on campus. Charlie believed in the power of free speech and debate to shape ideas and to persuade people.”

SUSPECT IN CHARLIE KIRK SHOOTING: WHAT WE KNOW AND DON’T KNOW AT THIS HOUR

Cox confirmed that a person of interest is in custody and that the investigation is ongoing.

But he wanted to make “crystal clear” that whoever did this will be found.

“We will find you. We will try you and we will hold you accountable to the furthest extent of the law,” the governor said. “And I just want to remind people that we still have the death penalty here in the state of Utah.” 

Law enforcement officials announced a person of interest has been arrested in the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk on Wednesday in Utah, according to FBI Director Kash Patel.

“The subject for the horrific shooting today that took the life of Charlie Kirk is now in custody,” Patel wrote on X. “Thank you to the local and state authorities in Utah for your partnership with @fbi. We will provide updates when able.”

CHARLIE KIRK, TURNING POINT USA FOUNDER, DEAD AT 31 AFTER UTAH CAMPUS SHOOTING

Kirk, 31, was speaking at Utah Valley University on Wednesday afternoon when a single shot rang out, appearing to strike the Turning Point USA founder.

Charlie Kirk was shot and later died at a speaking event in Utah on Wednesday, prompting emotional reactions from prominent figures across sports.

President Donald Trump later announced that Kirk had died, in a post on Truth Social.

CHARLIE KIRK, TURNING POINT USA FOUNDER, DEAD AT 31 AFTER UTAH CAMPUS SHOOTING

The sports figures who weighed in after Kirk was initially shot included NFL legend Brett Favre, former Pittsburgh Steelers stars Antonio Brown and LeVeon Bell, former NFL wide receiver Golden Tate, New York Yankees World Series champion Mark Teixeira, Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, boxers Jake Paul and Ryan Garcia, Auburn basketball coach Bruce Pearl, former MLB pitcher John Rocker, sports broadcaster Michelle Tafoya and Sports Illustrated journalist Albert Breer.

Find out what several athletes said about the late Charlie Kirk.

This is an excerpt from a story by Fox News Digital’s Jackson Thompson.

During a conversation with Fox News’ Bret Baier, President Donald Trump
described Charlie Kirk as an “amazing guy,” noting “nobody was better.”

Following the 31-year-old Turning Point USA founder’s assassination Wednesday at a speaking engagement in Utah, the president said violence “cannot happen.”

“Charlie was such an amazing guy. He really captured the youth – the imagination of the youth,” Trump said. “He was an unbelievable patriot. He really convinced millions and millions of young people that MAGA was the way to go. Today is so sad. He was an amazing person who was not afraid to talk to and confront the other side. Just talk to them, debate them, and explain why they were wrong and MAGA was right. Nobody was better. It’s such a tragic day.”

Fox News’ Bret Baier contributed to this report.

Charlie Kirk rose to prominence after he dropped out of college to pursue political activism and founded Turning Point USA (TPUSA) to serve as an organization that promotes conservative youth activism at high school and college campuses.

The organization operates a national field program that sets up tables on campuses to engage in face-to-face conversations, as well as distributing educational materials, registering new activists and hosting campus events.

TPUSA has become known for its conferences held around the country each year, including six national summits and eight regional conferences.

Prominent Republican and conservative political figures are frequently highlighted as speakers at TPUSA events.

Read the full story by Eric Revell on Fox Business here.

Fox News Digital’s Peter D’Abrosca reported seeing three people in tears while boarding his flight to Salt Lake City, Utah over the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.

Another woman was watching Fox News in her seat, leaned back in horror, D’Abrosca said.

A Fox News reporter at Charlotte Douglas International Airport also witnessed travelers crying as news of Kirk’s assassination became public.

Fox News Digital’s Peter D’Abrosca contributed to this report.

Leaders from across Europe are offering their condolences and support for the Kirk family after Charlie Kirk died Wednesday in the wake of a shooting during a speaking engagement in Utah.

“He has been killed for saying things that used to be simple common sense,” wrote former Prime Minister Boris Johnson
in an X post. “He has been killed because he had the courage to stand up publicly for reasonable opinions held by millions and millions of ordinary people both in the US and Britain. The world has a shining new martyr to free speech.”

Leader of Reform UK Nigel Farage also weighed in, writing “This is a very dark day for American democracy. I am desperately sad for Charlie, his wife and children.”

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni added she was “shocked” by the tragedy. “I am shocked by the news of the killing of Charlie Kirk, a young and followed Republican activist,” wrote Meloni in a translated X post.

“An atrocious murder, a deep wound for democracy and for those who believe in freedom. My condolences to his family, to his loved ones, and to the American conservative community,” Meloni concluded.

Finally, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his condolences:

“My thoughts this evening are with the loved ones of Charlie Kirk. It is heartbreaking that a young family has been robbed of a father and a husband. We must all be free to debate openly and freely without fear – there can be no justification for political violence.”

A generational leader in the conservative movement was lost on Wednesday, as Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was assassinated during a live event at a Utah university, the latest in a rash of political violence tearing America apart.

For millions of Americans, especially the young, Kirk was an inspiration whose message of patriotism and self-reliance shone like a bright light in our cynical age of national self-hatred. But for millions of others, this made him a very dangerous threat.

When Kirk founded TPUSA, back in 2012, it wasn’t supposed to be possible that a conservative could walk onto college campuses, those most high bastions of far leftism, and not just command a crowd, but create a movement.

CHARLIE KIRK, TURNING POINT USA FOUNDER, DEAD AT 31 AFTER UTAH CAMPUS SHOOTING

At that time, being a young conservative was almost an oxymoron. Yet, here was a walking, talking Alex P. Keaton with a rapier wit and a finger on the pulse of how so many college-age Americans really felt, how frustrated they really were. He was a happy warrior, who engaged those with whom he disagreed in good faith and decency.

Read more about what may have led to Charlie Kirk’s death.

This is an excerpt from an opinion piece by Fox News’ David Marcus.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) confirmed to Fox News it has sent agents to Utah Valley University in Orem, where Charlie Kirk was assassinated Wednesday.

HSI will assist with the manhunt for the assassin, who remains at large.

Fox News’ Bill Melugin contributed to this report.

Former President Barack Obama condemned the fatal shooting of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.

He called the assassination “despicable” that has no place in our democracy.

“We don’t yet know what motivated the person who shot and killed Charlie Kirk, but this kind of despicable violence has no place in our democracy,” Obama wrote on X.

“Michelle and I will be praying for Charlie’s family tonight, especially his wife Erika and their two young children,” he added.

Former President Joe Biden took to social media on Wednesday after Charlie Kirk was announced dead in the wake of a shooting during a college campus speaking engagement in Utah.

“There is no place in our country for this kind of violence,” wrote Biden. “It must end now. Jill and I are praying for Charlie Kirk’s family and loved ones.”

Kirk was a father of two and a conservative commentator who would have turned 32 next month.

Law enforcement is searching for the assassin who shot and killed Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, a source tells Fox News.

Authorities are now going door to door as they search for the gunman.

Multiple federal sources told Fox News that Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) has sent Utah agents to the area where Kirk was assassinated to assist with the manhunt for the shooter.

Kirk was speaking under a white tent when a single shot rang out, striking him. He later died from his injuries.

Authorities initially detained one person after the shooting, but that individual has since been released. Law enforcement officials say the search continues for the suspect responsible.

Hours after Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at a college campus event on Wednesday, President Donald Trump ordered flags lowered to half-staff through Sunday night.

“In honor of Charlie Kirk
, a truly Great American Patriot, I am ordering all American Flags throughout the United States lowered to Half [Staff] until Sunday evening at 6 P.M.,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social.

Utah Valley University said those still sheltering in place on campus following the shooting should call 801-863-8130, a hotline set up for escorted evacuations.

“Police will come and escort you out of the building,” the university wrote in an X statement. “Public transportation available at Orem Station by pedestrian bridge.”

Vice President JD Vance
offered condolences in the form of prayer on Wednesday after President Donald Trump released the news of Charlie Kirk’s death in the wake of a Utah campus shooting during a speaking engagement.

“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,” wrote Vance, who also shared the entirety of President Trump’s Truth Social post in a screengrab.

“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie,” wrote President Trump. “He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”

Utah Valley University said police are going “building to building” escorting students and staff off campus grounds.

Those on campus were asked to secure in place and wait for officers to escort them “safely.”

Roads to campus are currently closed, the university confirmed on X.

Officials have not yet confirmed any suspects in custody.

A Utah Valley University (UVU) spokesperson told Fox News Digital the suspect that was initially in custody has since been released.

UVU Police are currently investigating in conjunction with the Orem Police Department, Utah Department of Public Safety and the FBI, according to the spokesperson.

“It is with the tremendous sadness and shock that Charlie Kirk, who was invited by the student group TPUSA, was shot at about 12:20 when he began speaking at his planned event on the Utah Valley University Orem Campus,” the school wrote in a statement. “We are asking those still on campus to secure in place until police officers can safely escort them off campus.”

The campus was immediately evacuated and remains closed until further notice. Classes have been cancelled.

Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, is reportedly listed in critical condition after being shot at an event in Utah on Wednesday.

Kirk was shot while speaking at Utah Valley University.

CHARLIE KIRK SHOT AT UTAH EVENT, HOSPITALIZED

A law enforcement official told The Associated Press that Kirk was listed in critical condition at a Utah hospital.

Videos posted to social media from Utah Valley University show Kirk speaking into a microphone while sitting under a white tent when a shot rang out.

A suspect was in custody shortly after the shooting.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Republican Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said those responsible for Wednesday’s shooting at the Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University will be “held fully accountable.”

“Violence has no place in our public life,” Cox wrote in a statement. “Americans of every political persuasion must unite in condemning this act. Our prayers are with Charlie, his family, and all those affected.”

Republican Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears added she is praying for the father of two.

“He’s a husband, a young father, and someone who cares deeply about our country,” Sears said. “Praying for him and his family.”

Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, and Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, also shared prayers via X posts.

Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk remains hospitalized tonight after being shot in the neck during a campus event at Utah Valley University.

The 31-year-old activist is the father of two young children with his wife, Erika, whom he married in 2021. Erika, a former Miss Arizona USA and a podcast host, has often spoken about faith and family alongside her husband.

Their daughter, born in 2022, and infant son, born in 2024, are receiving prayers pouring in from across the country. In July, Kirk shared a video of his daughter running into his arms on the set of Fox & Friends
. The tender moment was shared on X with Kirk arguing for marriage, having children and being “courageous.”

Messages of support have come from all sides of the political spectrum in hope for a father’s recovery and a family’s strength.

FBI Director Kash Patel said agents will quickly be on the scene at Utah Valley University, where Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was shot on Wednesday afternoon.

“We are closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting involving Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University,” Patel said. “Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected. Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation.”

CHARLIE KIRK SHOT AT UTAH EVENT, HOSPITALIZED

According to reports, the alleged shooter fired from over 200 yards away. University officials say the alleged shooter is in custody.

Ellen Treanor, associate vice president of strategic communication management at Utah Valley University, told Fox News Digital shots were fired at Charlie Kirk from a building about 200 yards from the tent where he was speaking.

Treanor told Fox News Digital Kirk was “immediately” taken away from campus by his security team following the shooting.

A suspect has been taken into custody, according to the university. They have not yet been publicly identified.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who is currently running for re-election, spoke with “Fox & Friends” on Thursday as his city and the nation commemorate the 24th anniversary of the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

“As a lieutenant during that time, and coming down to the site that evening, and watching the ground smoldering and seeing two buildings that were the symbols of our strength here in the New York area… those emotions come back. But also I have the feeling of our resiliency. On 9/12, we got up,” Adams, who was a police officer during the 9/11 attacks, told “Fox & Friends.”

The mayor also spoke about political unrest in the city, particularly after years of protests over the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Fox News’ Lawrence Jones asked the mayor whether the protesters were a signal that America had forgotten about 9/11.

“It breaks my heart when I watch the radicalization of our young people through social media and through commentary that they just don’t understand,” Adam said, referencing when Osama Bin Laden’s letter went viral back in 2023.

“I believe we have to constantly remind our young people that this is the greatest country on the globe and we have enemies both foreign and domestic that want to hurt us.”

FIRST ON FOX: A bipartisan group of lawmakers from the House Homeland Security Committee are visiting Ground Zero in New York City to commemorate the 24th anniversary of 9/11 on Thursday, Fox News Digital has learned. 

New York remains in terrorism’s crosshairs, and members from the House Homeland Security Committee
 have sounded the alarm on potential threats the U.S. continues to face – especially as the U.S. gears up to host upcoming large-scale events like the FIFA World Cup next year. 

Rep. Andrew Garbarino, R-N.Y., chair of the House Homeland Security Committee, will lead a cohort of lawmakers on the committee to visit Ground Zero on Thursday, according to a committee aide. The lawmakers are also slated to lay flowers at the memorial before thanking first responders, and also participate in a staff-led tour of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum on Thursday evening. 

“Twenty-four years later, it’s critical to remember that [the Department of Homeland Security] and the Committee on Homeland Security were created in the aftermath of one of the darkest days in our nation’s history,” Garbarino said in a statement to Fox News Digital. “As a lifelong New Yorker and a proud Long Islander, ‘Never Forget’ is about more than remembrance; it is a call to action that guides my work every day, and it will continue to guide the Committee’s.”

“More than two decades later, our nation still faces heightened and evolving threats from foreign terrorist organizations and homegrown violent extremists, and New York remains a top terror target,” Garbarino said. 

The Justice Department’s research and technology agency, the National Institute of Justice, determined in 2023 that New York City had the highest number of attempted or actual terror incidents in the country. 

This is an excerpt from an article by Diana Stancy.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth spoke about his own journey into the military and the sacrifices made by American servicemembers on 9/11 and in the subsequent years.

“I felt an unshakable call to action, a duty to defend our sacred homeland with everything I had,” Hegseth said of his feeling after seeing what happened on Sept. 11, 2001.

Hegseth also spoke of the assassination of Charlie Kirk on Wednesday, saying that like those who lost their lives on 9/11 he would also not be forgotten. 

“The life example and even death of Christ follower, American patriot Charlie Kirk gives me hope,” Hegseth said. “Charlie, we love you… like those on 9/11, you will never be forgotten.”

President Donald Trump spoke at the Pentagon’s 9/11 memorial ceremony on the 24th anniversary of the terrorist attack on Thursday.

“Eighty-four years ago this morning, the banks of the Potomac were filled with the clamor of construction workers who broke ground on the building now known as the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 1941. At the time, it was the biggest building ever built,” Trump said. “From that moment forward, this structure stood as a monument to American strength, power and cherished American freedom.”

“Exactly six decades later, on Sept. 11, 2001, those same walls, built with the sweat, muscle and blood of our parents and grandparents, were scarred by flame and shaken by terror as our country came face to face with pure evil,” the president continued. “On that fateful day, savage monsters attacked the very symbols of our civilization.”

Trump detailed the horrific events of 9-11 and the bravery of American first responders, as well as those on United Airlines Flight 93 who chose to sacrifice themselves and save the lives of their fellow Americans. He also told the stories of several Americans who lost their lives in the terror attacks that forever changed the nation.

“Twenty-four years have passed since that Tuesday morning in September, and an entire generation of Americans have come of age in a totally different world,” Trump said. “While they cannot remember the agony of that day, they are carrying on the legacy of those who [were] lost.”

The president concluded with words of hope for America.

“In their memory, we make a solemn pledge and a noble promise: We will honor always our great heroes,” Trump said. “We will always talk about our heroes, that’s the way our country is, and that’s the way the people feel.”

“We will defend the nation they serve, the values they have held and the freedom for which they died,” Trump added. “We will support our troops. We will protect our families and we will preserve the American way of life for every future generation. We will build taller, grow stronger, fight harder and soar higher, and together we will go forward as one people with one heart, one faith, one flag and one glorious destiny under Almighty God.”

At 10:03 a.m. on Sept. 11, 2001, United Airlines Flight 93 crashed in a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The plane, which was headed from New Jersey to California, was about 20 minutes flying time away from Washington, D.C., when the passengers and crew members began storming the cockpit. The crash killed 40 passengers and crew members aboard the flight.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Air Force Gen. Dan Caine spoke at the Pentagon as America marked 24 years since the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

“The conventional wisdom is that our nation went to war weeks later in Afghanistan. The truth is, we went to war immediately and America started to fight back before the attack was even over.”

He commended the heroic actions of first responders and those aboard United Flight 93 who sacrificed themselves.

At 9:37 a.m. American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon, killing the 53 passengers and six crew members on board. The crash and fire killed 125 military and civilian personnel on the ground, according to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.

At 9:03 a.m. on Sept. 11, 2001, United Airlines Flight 175 crashed into the South Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City.

The first attack of Sept. 11, 2001, was at 8:46 a.m. when American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City.

The White House memorialized those lost on Sept. 11, 2001, with a post on X.

“On the 24th anniversary of 9/11, we honor the lives lost, the heroes who emerged, and the resilience of the American spirit,” the White House wrote.

The New York City Police Department (NYPD) held a ceremony on Sept. 10 ahead of the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks. The NYPD lost 23 officers, the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) lost 343 firefighters and the Port Authority of NY & NJ lost 37. The NYPD also acknowledged those who continue to suffer from illnesses related to injuries sustained during the 2001 attacks.

“September 11, 2001, marked one of our nation’s darkest days. Few responded as bravely as New York City’s first responders,” the NYPD wrote in a memorial post on X.