Conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk, has died following a tragic shooting at Utah Valley University (UVU) on Wednesday. He was 31 years old.

According to law enforcement officials, Kirk was rushed to the hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to his injuries. The shooting occurred around 12:20 p.m. during a Turning Point USA “American Comeback Tour” stop at the campus.

Videos from the event showed chaos as shots rang out under a white tent where Kirk was speaking, with attendees screaming and scrambling for safety.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death in a statement on Truth Social:

“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the heart of the youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”

Following the incident, UVU was placed on immediate lockdown, and students were evacuated building by building under police escort. More than 60 emergency vehicles from surrounding agencies responded, and roads leading to the university were temporarily shut down.

While initial reports suggested a suspect had been taken into custody, UVU spokesperson Ellen Treanor later confirmed the shooter remains at large as of Wednesday evening. A manhunt is ongoing with local police and campus security working together.

Kirk, who co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012, built it into one of the most influential conservative youth movements in America, championing free speech and conservative values on college campuses nationwide. He was also a media commentator, podcast host, and political strategist, admired by allies for his ability to mobilize young conservatives.

He is survived by his wife, Erika, and their two children.

The news has sparked shock and grief across the country, with political leaders, student groups, and supporters mourning the loss of a figure many described as a “fearless voice” for conservative youth.