Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk Dies After Utah Campus Shooting

Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old influential conservative activist and close ally of President Donald Trump, was fatally shot in the neck during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA and a prominent figure in conservative youth movements, was attacked while responding to a question about mass shooters. President Trump expressed deep sorrow, calling Kirk "great" and "legendary," and extended his sympathies to Kirk's family, including his wife Erika. The shooting occurred about 20 minutes into Kirk's presentation, and although an initial suspect was detained, authorities later released that individual as the investigation continues. Graphic video of the incident surfaced on social media, prompting widespread condolences across the political spectrum. Kirk's death is a significant loss to conservative activism, given his role as a powerful surrogate and adviser in Trump's political movement.