Charlie Kirk Assassinated at Utah College Event; Trump Orders Flags at Half-Staff, Suspect Arrested

Washington(The Uttam Hindu): In a shocking act of political violence, Charlie Kirk, 31, co-founder and CEO of Turning Point USA and one of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s closest allies, was shot dead during a college event in Utah.

The incident underscores the growing threat of political violence in the United States. Kirk, a vocal supporter of conservative values, was delivering a speech at Utah Valley University when the gunman opened fire.

According to video footage posted by the university on social media, Kirk was seen seated under a white tent, holding a microphone, when a shot rang out. He raised his right hand instinctively as blood poured from the left side of his neck, sending the audience into panic.

Trump confirmed Kirk’s death on Truth Social, calling him a “great and greatest person” who deeply connected with American youth. “No one understood the hearts of America’s young people better than Charlie. Everyone loved and respected him, especially me. Melania and I send our prayers to his beautiful wife Erika and the family. Charlie, we love you!” wrote Trump. The former president also announced that in honor of Kirk, he was ordering all U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff until Sunday evening.

Utah Mayor David Young confirmed that the suspected shooter has been taken into custody. Authorities have yet to release the suspect’s identity or motive. This assassination marks one of the most high-profile political killings in recent U.S. history and is already sparking debates on gun violence, political extremism, and security at public events.