President Donald Trump is paying heartfelt tribute. The 79-year-old leader spoke out regarding Charlie Kirk's tragic death mere hours after the conservative activist was fatally shot at a speaking event held at Utah Valley University. Kirk was just 31 years old. "I am overwhelmed with grief and fury at the heinous act of assassination that claimed Charlie Kirk's life on a college campus in Utah," Trump declared in a poignant video message on September 10. "Charlie inspired millions, and tonight, all who knew him and cherished him stand united in shock and horror."
Trump went on to emphasize Kirk's profound impact and his fervent passion for debate. "His mission was to draw young people into the political arena, and he accomplished this more effectively than anyone else ever has," the former president continued. "He championed his beliefs with bravery, logic, humor, and elegance. It's long overdue for all Americans and the media to acknowledge that violence and murder are the heartbreaking outcomes of relentlessly demonizing those with whom you disagree, day after day, year after year, in the most malevolent and deplorable manner imaginable."
Trump shared, "This is a somber moment for America." Kirk, who co-founded the conservative advocacy group Turning Point USA, was approximately 20 minutes into his presentation at Utah Valley University when witnesses reported hearing gunfire emanating from a nearby building, a spokesperson for the college informed NBC News. The political activist, who was hosting his signature "Prove Me Wrong" table on the college campus to inaugurate his nationwide American Comeback Tour, was the sole individual shot in the incident and was promptly transported to a nearby hospital, according to the spokesperson. Trump later confirmed Kirk's passing in a heart-wrenching statement on the same day.
"The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is no more," Trump penned on Truth Social on September 10. "No one understood or possessed the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was beloved and revered by ALL, especially me, and now, he is gone from us."
And the President offered his deepest condolences to Kirk's grieving family members, including his wife Erika Frantzve and their two children. "Melania and I extend our profound sympathies to his beautiful wife Erika and her family," Trump added. "Charlie, we love you!"
Authorities have not apprehended a shooting suspect, the FBI revealed on September 10 after releasing a person of interest. In the aftermath of the tragedy, Utah Valley University canceled all its classes until further notice and urged its staff and students to "evacuate the campus immediately," the school confirmed on X on September 10.
Prior to Kirk's untimely death, Trump had expressed hope for his recovery. "We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot," Trump wrote on Truth Social after Kirk was transported to the hospital. "A remarkable individual from head to toe. GOD BLESS HIM!"
Vice President JD Vance echoed these sentiments, adding in his own message on X, "Dear God, protect Charlie in his darkest hour."
Meanwhile, Chris Pratt conveyed his thoughts and prayers to Kirk's loved ones. "Praying for Charlie Kirk right now, for his wife and young children, for our country," the Guardians of the Galaxy star wrote on X on September 10. "We need God's grace. God help us."
