Tragic Death of Charlie Kirk Sparks Reactions
Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Bucker expressed gratitude towards Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, following the news of Kirk’s shooting death at a Utah Valley University event. In a post, Bucker said, “Thank you to the strong witness of Christ @charliekirk11. Thank you for pursuing the truth and for guiding my family as husband and father. Lord, give them eternal rest, and let them shine a lasting light.”
Reports indicate that Kirk was shot in the neck during a Q&A session with a student, prompting a response from SWAT teams and other law enforcement agencies that effectively locked down the university while searching for the shooter.
After the incident, SWAT teams and federal agents evacuated UVU campus and launched a manhunt for the assailants.
Deseret News reporters were on-site covering Kirk’s rally. Approximately 20 minutes after his noontime arrival, while he was engaged in conversation with students, gunfire erupted, and Kirk was reportedly struck.
In memory of Kirk, President Trump has ordered that American flags be flown at half-mast until Sunday evening. He referred to Kirk as “a truly great American patriot.”
Various Trump administration officials, including Vice President JD Vance, Marco Rubio, and HHS Director Robert F. Kennedy Jr., voiced their sadness and anger over Kirk’s death.
Rubio shared, “I was heartbroken and furious at the assassination of Charlie Kirk. He was an incredible husband and father, and a great American. May he rest in eternal peace with our Lord.”
Kennedy added that “the bullet silenced the most eloquent truth of the era,” recalling Kirk as a fierce advocate for free speech. He extended prayers for Kirk’s family, noting that Charlie is now at peace.
Vance remarked, “Lord, I will give him an eternal rest,” in a heartfelt tribute.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox commented on Kirk’s influence, stating that he inspired others through his belief in free speech and meaningful debate. He also mentioned the state’s ongoing commitment to the death penalty.
Meanwhile, FBI Director Kash Patel reported that a suspect was detained shortly after the incident, but was released after questioning.
