Suspect in Custody Following Shooting Death of conservative Activist Charlie Kirk
OREM, Utah – A suspect is in custody following the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk, the co-founder and president of the conservative student group Turning Point USA, authorities announced Thursday. The shooting occurred Wednesday at Utah Valley University in Orem,Utah,during a stop on Kirk’s “american Comeback Tour.”
The suspect,described by Utah Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason as appearing to be of college age and “blending in well” on campus,was apprehended after a search involving the university campus and surrounding woods. Classes at Utah Valley University where cancelled Thursday as investigators continued to gather evidence.
Kirk, 35, was a prominent figure in conservative circles, celebrated by Republicans as a charismatic advocate for right-wing policies on issues including race, gender, immigration, religion, and gun regulation. He frequently engaged with critics in public debates.
Former President Donald Trump stated he would award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. Kirk is survived by his wife and two young children.
The shooting has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation of political violence from across the political spectrum and internationally. Investigations are ongoing.
