Washington D.C. – President Donald Trump has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff across the United States until sunset on the following Sunday, following the death of Charlie Kirk, a prominent pro-Trump influencer. The order extends to all public buildings, military posts, embassies, consulate offices, adn U.S. facilities abroad, as announced by the White house Thursday.
Kirk, known for his appeal to young conservatives, was fatally shot while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Thursday.Authorities are actively investigating the incident, with police and federal agents searching for a sniper believed to have fired from the campus roof. The shooting occurred during a daytime event attended by approximately 3,000 people.
Trump expressed his condolences on his Truth Social platform, stating, “No one understands or has the heart of young people in the United States better than Charlie.” He added, ”He was loved and admired by everyone, especially me, and now, he has gone.” The President extended his sympathies to Kirk’s wife, erika, and family, concluding with, “Charlie, we love you!”
Investigators confirmed a single bullet struck Kirk, and video footage circulating on social media appears to show blood pouring from his neck instantly after a gunshot was heard. The motive for the shooting remains under examination.