US conservative activist Charlie Kirk, a close ally of President Donald Trump and outspoken evangelical Christian, was fatally shot on Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University. He was 31.
The married father of two young children was addressing 3,000 students at the launch of his “American Comeback Tour” when a single gunshot struck him in the neck. Authorities believe the sniper fired from a rooftop on campus. The suspect remains at large despite a manhunt, and two men detained earlier were released without charge.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox called the attack a political assassination. “This is a dark day for our state, it’s a tragic day for our nation,” he said. President Trump, who credited Kirk and his group Turning Point USA with energising young voters, vowed that those behind the killing would be found. He also ordered all flags flown at half-mast until Sunday.
Dan Andros, managing director at the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), described Kirk as a powerful communicator who impacted thousands of young people. “He was very articulate, very knowledgeable for a guy as young as he was and also a husband and a father of two young children,” he told Premier Christian News.
Andros highlighted Kirk’s bold witness for Christ: “He would often start events by talking about the gospel, debating the truth of scripture, and using biblical values to push back against lies told by secular culture. He can be attributed as one of the reasons why we’re seeing revivals on campuses.”
Tributes poured in from across politics, media and entertainment. Hollywood actor Chris Pratt wrote on X: “Praying for Charlie Kirk right now, for his wife and young children, for our country. We need God’s grace.”
Meghan McCain said Kirk’s murder would not silence conservatives, adding: “We pray for your eternal rest with our Lord. May God bless your family always and be with your children and wife.”
Mobile phone video from the event captured Kirk answering a question about gun violence moments before he was shot. He had just asked, “Counting or not counting gang violence?” when the shot rang out.
The footage, now circulating widely, has been described as traumatising. Andros said CBNrefused to broadcast it. “We don’t need to loop horrific images over and over again,” he explained. “There must be truth, but it is not healthy for us to sit here consuming very graphic videos.”
Andros urged Christians to pray for Kirk’s family. “It’s going to be a tough time for this family,” he said. “Pray for God’s peace to be with them, and pray that cooler heads prevail. The only solution is hearts changed to follow God.”
Dear Lord, we lift up the family and loved ones of Charlie Kirk, asking that your comfort and peace surround them in this time of grief. Guide leaders amd protect communities. In Jesus name, Amen.
Source: Premier Christian News
