Tragic Shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University
Christian apologist and author Frank Turek was in shock after the assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, which occurred during an event at Utah Valley University on September 10. In a recent podcast episode, he shared the harrowing details of the shooting and their rushed trip to the hospital, where doctors soon declared the 31-year-old Kirk deceased.
Turek recalled how Kirk had originally reached out to him years prior, seeking guidance in Christian apologetics. Their relationship grew, to the point where Turek, reflecting on their bond, mentioned he came to see Kirk as a son.
On the morning of the incident, Turek was traveling with Kirk’s team to the university, where they had planned to address student questions and refine their responses. After a brief stop to speak with local entrepreneurs, they arrived at the outdoor venue. Kirk was engaging with supporters, even tossing hats into the lively crowd.
While Turek expressed concerns about safety given the surrounding buildings, Kirk appeared unfazed, confident in both his own security as well as the local police’s preparedness.
As Kirk addressed the audience, Turek stood about 30 feet away when he heard a single gunshot and witnessed Kirk collapsing.
Turek recounted the moments that followed, describing how he heard himself say, “No, no, no,” upon learning of the attack. Instinctively, he jumped into the car with the security team, performing CPR and praying as they sped toward the hospital.
“Charlie was so tall that we couldn’t even close the door,” he explained. “We drove four miles, and I kept shouting, ‘Come on, Charlie! Come on!'”
As they rushed, Turek realized the gravity of the situation—Kirk was gone. “His eyes were fixed. He hadn’t seen me. He was already with Jesus. He didn’t feel any pain,” he shared, with tears in his eyes.
Despite attempts by doctors to resuscitate him, Kirk was declared dead within half an hour after sustaining injuries described as “devastating.”
After the tragedy, the Turning Point USA team immediately reached out to Kirk’s wife, Erica, arranging for her to fly to the hospital. When she arrived, Turek recalled her promise to continue her husband’s legacy amid her grief, saying, “He loved you, and he was doing what he wanted to do.” They embraced, with Erica asserting her determination to carry on Charlie’s mission.
The team faced challenges accessing their personal belongings due to ongoing investigations, but when possible, Erica sought out her husband’s cross necklace, which Turek found in his computer bag.
In a heartbreaking image captured later, Erica held onto the cross while escorting Charlie’s body to a chapel.
Turek has described Kirk as a courageous leader who was steadfast in his faith. He defended Kirk from critics, emphasizing his humility and dedication to his family. Just a day before his death, Kirk had sent Turek a scripture, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges he faced.
