Eyewitnesses Say the 31-Year-Old Was Discussing Gun Control Just Moments Before Being Fatally Shot
Charlie Kirk Fatally Shot During Live Event
Prominent conservative activist Charlie Kirk, 31, known for founding Turning Point USA and his close ties to former President Donald Trump, was shot and killed during a live event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday.
- The fatal shooting occurred during TPUSA’s “The American Comeback Tour”.
- Kirk was addressing students from under a white tent when he was struck in the neck by a single bullet.
- The shooting was captured on bystander videos now circulating on social media.
Eyewitnesses: Kirk Was Speaking on Gun Control Before the Shooting
According to those present, the tragedy struck at a particularly ironic moment:
- Kirk had just been debating gun control when the shot rang out.
- Raydon DeChene, a student attendee, told CBS News: “And there’s just blood pouring out everywhere… It was just one pop, and then we all dropped to the ground.”
- Another attendee, Jordan Last, said he was preparing to challenge Kirk with questions when the shooting happened.
Security Lapses Under Scrutiny
Despite the scale and political sensitivity of the event:
- There were no metal detectors at the venue.
- Only six university police officers were present along with Kirk’s personal security.
- The Utah Department of Public Safety confirmed that the location was a publicly accessible university quad.
Over 3,000 people attended the event, raising concerns over crowd safety and event planning.
Who Was Charlie Kirk?
Charlie Kirk was a leading voice in the American conservative youth movement.
- He co-founded Turning Point USA (TPUSA) in 2012 at just 18 years old.
- Known for fiery campus debates and vocal criticism of left-wing politics.
- He was a staunch supporter of Donald Trump, frequently appearing at conservative rallies and events.
- Host of the Charlie Kirk Show, a popular podcast and radio program on U.S. conservative media networks.
Trump Confirms and Mourns Kirk’s Death
Former President Donald Trump paid tribute on his platform, Truth Social:
“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.”
Shooter Still at Large
Authorities are treating the incident as a targeted attack:
- The shooter is believed to have fired from a rooftop overlooking the student courtyard.
- Two men were detained and questioned but later released.
- One man, George Zinn, was charged with obstruction, but has no confirmed link to the shooting.
Why This Article Does Not Include the Shooting Video
We have chosen not to embed or link to video footage of the incident due to:
- The graphic nature of the content.
- Respect for the victim’s family and loved ones.
- Adherence to journalistic ethics and platform guidelines.
We advise discretion when viewing such material on third-party platforms.
Ongoing Investigation
The Utah Department of Public Safety, along with federal partners, is continuing the investigation. No arrest has been made as of yet.
More updates are expected in the coming days.
