Conservative Leader Charlie Kirk Shot Dead Utah University Event

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA and a close ally of President Donald Trump, was fatally shot during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. The shooting, reportedly from a long-range sniper, sparked widespread condemnation of political violence and prayers for Kirk and his family across political and social spheres, including from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Vice President JD Vance, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune. President Trump expressed deep sorrow, calling Kirk "great" and "legendary," and extended sympathies to Kirk's wife Erika and their children. The incident prompted reactions from numerous sports figures, such as New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart and Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, who condemned the violence and honored Kirk’s contributions. The House of Representatives held a moment of silence, with Speaker Mike Johnson emphasizing the urgent need to end political violence. The tragedy has united diverse voices in a call for civility and an end to such acts of political violence in the United States.