What was supposed to be a lively political event at Utah Valley University turned into a scene of chaos and tragedy.
Hundreds of students had gathered to hear from conservative activist Charlie Kirk when, just 20 minutes into the program, a gunshot shattered the atmosphere.
The Fatal Moment
Kirk, who was sitting under a tent marked with the slogan The American Comeback, was struck in the neck by a single bullet.
Horrified students watched as he collapsed, blood pouring from his wound.
Despite being rushed to the hospital, the 31-year-old father of two did not survive.
Panic and Confusion
Videos quickly spread online showing students screaming and scrambling for safety.
Witnesses recalled the terrifying moment the shot rang out.
“I saw a bunch of blood come out of Charlie, his body just went limp,” said one attendee.
Another said she hid in a closet after nearly being trampled in the chaos.
Conflicting Reports About a Suspect
In the immediate aftermath, confusion reigned.
Police were seen dragging away an older man, sparking rumors that the shooter had been caught.
However, university officials later clarified that no one was in custody.
Investigators now believe the gunman fired from a building roughly 200 yards away.
Campus Locked Down
The university quickly went into lockdown. Students and staff were told to “secure in place” until escorted out by police.
Classes were canceled, and the campus remained closed while officers, backed by the FBI and state law enforcement, launched a massive manhunt.
Trump Confirms the Death
Former President Donald Trump broke the news of Kirk’s passing on Truth Social, describing him as “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk.”
Trump praised Kirk’s passion for young people, offered condolences to his wife and children, and ordered U.S. flags to fly at half-mast until Sunday evening.
A Life Cut Short
Kirk was known for founding Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization that gained influence across college campuses.
Fierce in debate and outspoken in his politics, he was often a polarizing figure but had built a loyal following.
He leaves behind his wife Erika and their two children.
Witnesses Question Security
Some attendees voiced frustration over the lack of safety measures.
One student said he expected to pass through security but was surprised to find there were no checkpoints.
“It was literally, anyone could walk in if they wanted,” he told NBC News.
Leaders React to the Shooting
The attack drew swift and emotional reactions from across the political spectrum.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox vowed justice, saying authorities would track down the killer.
Vice President JD Vance offered prayers, while California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the shooting as “disgusting and vile.”
Other figures, from Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to Candace Owens, also called for prayers and unity in the face of the violence.
Even those who often opposed Kirk politically agreed that political violence must be rejected.
The Hunt for the Gunman
As of now, no suspect has been publicly identified.
Authorities believe the shooter may have been positioned on top of the Losee Center building, and FBI agents have been deployed to assist local police.
The investigation remains active, with officials urging patience as they comb through evidence and interview witnesses.
A Nation in Mourning
For Kirk’s supporters, the incident brought painful echoes of the attempted assassination of Donald Trump in 2024.
Many described the shooting as an attack not only on one man but on political expression itself.
As tributes pour in and the nation grapples with yet another act of political violence, one thing is certain: the hunt for justice has only just begun.