Washington, Sept. 12: US President Trump's close aide Charlie Kirk, who played a key role in attracting young Republican voters, has been shot dead.
While answering questions from students at a rally at Utah Valley University in Orem, a gunshot was suddenly heard around 12 noon. He fell on the stage and was immediately taken to the hospital, but doctors confirmed that he was dead.
Law enforcement officials have arrested a suspect at the scene in connection with the murder of Charlie Kirk. But after confirming that he was not involved in the murder, he has been released. It has been clarified that a search is underway to arrest the real killer.
Charlie Kirk is one of US President Donald Trump's closest people. Donald Trump confirmed his death in a post on Truth Social, while Utah Governor Spencer Cox said in a press conference that it was a political assassination. Those responsible will be punished.
He has ordered the US and Utah flags to be flown at half-staff across the state until September 14. Following the incident, police and other agencies have locked down the campus and launched a search operation. Initial reports said police had arrested a suspect, but officials later clarified that the real attacker was still at large.
Who is Charlie Kirk?
Charlie Kirk was a major figure in conservative politics in America. He founded Turning Point USO, a group for high school and college students. It had garnered nearly 15 billion views on social media by 2024.
Charlie Kirk is also popular among people interested in American politics in India. Kirk has taken a tough stance on many controversial issues, such as Christian nationalism, gun rights, misinformation, and electoral fraud. He has also persuaded young voters to vote for Trump in the 2024 US presidential election.
Condolences:
Kirk is survived by his wife and two young children. As soon as the news of his death broke, there was a wave of mourning across America. The baseball team New York Yankees observed a moment of silence in honor of Charlie Kirk.
US President Donald Trump expressed deep condolences on the death of Charlie Kirk, describing him as a great man and a legend. No one understood the youth of America like Charlie. He is no longer with us. We are with his wife Erica and the entire family. Charlie, we love you. Trump has ordered flags across America to be flown at half-staff in his honor. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance visited Utah today.