Tragedy Strikes: Charlie Kirk’s Fatal Shooting Draws Nationwide Reactions
Kai Trump, granddaughter of former President Donald Trump, expressed her sorrow following the tragic shooting of Charlie Kirk, who was killed during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
President Trump announced Kirk’s death shortly after the incident. Footage from the event showed Kirk addressing a sizable audience from beneath a white tent when the shooting occurred.
Describing Kirk as a "close family friend," Kai Trump shared her grief on Instagram Stories. “I am heartbroken to hear about Charlie Kirk’s passing,” she wrote. “My condolences go out to his wife, Erika, and their two children. He was a close friend of our family, and we are keeping them in our thoughts and prayers during this devastating time. Rest in peace, Charlie.”
The announcement from President Trump surfaced via social media at 4:40 p.m. ET. He paid tribute in a post stating, “The great and legendary Charlie Kirk is no longer with us. No one better understood or captured the spirit of America’s youth than Charlie. He was deeply respected by all, particularly myself. Melania and I extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wonderful wife, Erika, and the family. Charlie, you will be missed!”
Prominent figures within the sports community also expressed their condolences, including former NFL quarterbacks Tim Tebow and Brett Favre.
“I am shocked and heartbroken by the news of Charlie Kirk’s passing,” Tebow posted on X. “At his core, Charlie was a follower of Christ—a devoted husband and father. His passion and courage were evident in everything he did to make a lasting impact.”
Favre echoed these sentiments, stating, “I’m at a loss for words. This is nothing short of tragic. Please keep Charlie Kirk and his loved ones in your prayers.”
Many others, including former New England Patriots receiver Julian Edelman and World Series champion Mark Teixeira, who recently announced his candidacy for Congress, shared their messages of support.
Kirk was speaking at Utah Valley University as part of his “American Comeback Tour” and was scheduled for an appearance at Utah State University later in the month.
Ellen Treanor, Associate Vice President for Strategic Communication Management at Utah Valley University, confirmed that the shooting occurred around 12:20 p.m. local time. The university promptly issued a campus-wide alert stating, “A single shot was fired on campus toward a visiting speaker. Police are currently investigating.”
Kirk was a well-known conservative media figure and co-founder of Turning Point USA, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting conservative principles.
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