Charlie Kirk, 31, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University during his “American Comeback Tour.” He was answering a question on mass shootings when a bullet struck his neck. Videos show him collapsing as “chaos followed, with people ducking for cover.”

First responders tried to save him, but his injuries were fatal. Former President Donald Trump called Kirk a “legendary” figure. Utah Governor Spencer Cox condemned the act as a “political assassination.” Kirk leaves behind his wife, Erika Frantzve, and two young children.

The attack was believed to come from “an elevated position about 200 feet away.” A suspect in tactical gear was briefly detained but released. The FBI and ATF are leading the investigation, with no arrests or clear motive yet.

Tributes poured in across the political spectrum. Supporters praised Kirk as a fearless advocate for conservative youth, while critics remembered him as deeply polarizing.

His death underscores the dangers public figures face. As one commentator noted, the tragedy raises urgent questions: how did America reach a point “where speech can cost a life?”