Influential conservative activist Charlie Kirk has died after being shot at a college event in Utah, US President Donald Trump says.
“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.
“No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us.”
Trump offered his condolences to Kirk’s family.
The 31-year-old did not hold elected office but was a powerful force in grassroots conservative politics, leading youth organization Turning Point USA, hosting a popular podcast and attracting millions of followers on social media.
A loyal Trump supporter and friend, Kirk attended his inauguration, campaigned with him at rallies and spoke at the Republican National Convention.
Kirk was shot in the neck during an outdoor event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday afternoon.