Trump Ally Charlie Kirk Killed in Utah Shooting
Charlie Kirk Shooting: What We Know About the Utah Valley University Attack
Overview
Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was shot on September 10, 2024, during a speech at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. He was reportedly addressing the topic of Black-on-Black crime at the time of the incident.
As of Wednesday evening, September 11, 2024, authorities stated a “manhunt” for the shooter is still underway. Two individuals initially taken into custody were later released after being determined not to be involved.
Details of the Shooting
The attack occurred around 12:20 p.m.local time,with a single shot fired from approximately 200 yards away. An eyewitness reported that the alleged shooter yelled, “I’d do it again.” Initial reports indicated a suspect was in custody, but officials have since clarified that the shooter remains at large.
Who is Charlie Kirk?
Charlie Kirk, 31, founded Turning Point USA in 2012. The organization focuses on engaging young people in conservative politics, frequently enough holding events on college campuses. Turning Point USA has become a significant force in conservative youth activism.
Vice President JD Vance has praised Turning Point USA’s role in organizing pro-Trump events and credited Kirk with influencing personnel decisions during the Trump administration.
Political Reactions
Following the shooting, politicians from both parties expressed condolences. However, former president Donald Trump attributed the attack to the “radical left.”
“For years, those on the radical left have compared marvelous Americans like Charlie to Nazis and the world’s worst mass murderers and criminals,” Trump stated in a video message. “This kind of rhetoric is directly responsible for the terrorism that we’re seeing in our country today, and it must stop right now.”
Donald Trump, via Truth Social, September 10, 2024
Trump further called for Americans and the media to acknowledge that violence is a consequence of demonizing those with differing viewpoints, while specifically condemning “radical-left political violence” without mentioning Democratic politicians who have been targeted.
Examination and Motive
Officials have not yet announced a motive for the shooting. Utah’s governor has characterized the incident as a “political assassination.” The investigation is ongoing.
Turning Point USA: A Brief History
| year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2012 | Charlie Kirk founds Turning Point USA. |
| 2016 | Turning Point USA gains prominence during the 2016 presidential election. |
| 2020 | Organization actively supports pro-Trump events. |
| 2024 | Founder Charlie Kirk is shot during a speech in Utah. |