Charlie Kirk, Founder of Turning Point USA, Murdered in Utah Shooting
With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Charlie Kirk, founder and president of Turning Point USA, who was assassinated during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. He was 31 years old. Witnesses described a question being asked about how many school shootings had been committed by “transgender” individuals, and the shot occurred as Charlie was starting to answer the question.
Charlie’s passing was announced by President Donald Trump at 2:44 Mountain Time:
And officially announced by Turning Point USA:
Note: This is an ongoing story. Details may be updated.
A Champion of Free Speech Silenced
Charlie Kirk was one of the most recognized conservative voices of his generation. From the time he founded Turning Point USA in 2012 at just 18 years old, he devoted his life to protecting the freedoms enshrined in the U.S. Constitution—especially freedom of speech and freedom of religion.
What began as a small student movement grew into one of the most influential activist networks in America, giving young conservatives the courage to speak out on hostile campuses and to stand for biblical and constitutional truth. Through his books, The Charlie Kirk Show, and hundreds of public debates, Charlie became a fearless advocate for students, families, and churches.
The Dangerous Climate of Political Violence
His murder is not an isolated act. In recent years, violent rhetoric against conservatives, Christians, and defenders of free speech has intensified—particularly in the Trump era, where President Trump himself has survived multiple attempts on his life. Those who dare to challenge progressive orthodoxy on college campuses and in the public square have been demonized, harassed, and targeted.
Charlie Kirk’s assassination is a sobering reminder that words have consequences, and that a culture of hatred against political opponents can culminate in real violence. A generation of young conservatives has lost a leader because our society has tolerated the dehumanization of those who stand for traditional values.
His Vision and Legacy
Charlie was more than a political figure—he was a mentor to thousands of students, a defender of the unborn, a champion of religious liberty, and an unflinching voice for truth in an age of compromise. He created spaces where young believers could be trained to engage culture without fear.
Through Turning Point USA’s conferences, campus chapters, and media outreach, Charlie’s work empowered countless young people to see that they were not alone in their convictions. His clarity and boldness inspired students to face ridicule, hostility, and even violence with unshakable courage.
A Call to Prayer and Resolve
We grieve deeply for Charlie’s family, his wife and loved ones, his colleagues at Turning Point USA, and the millions who looked to him as a leader. We ask Christians everywhere to pray for comfort in this season of grief and to stand firm in the truths Charlie gave his life defending.
Charlie Kirk will be remembered as a faithful brother in Christ, a bold defender of liberty, and a casualty of a cultural climate that too often treats disagreement as justification for violence. His legacy will live on in those who continue his mission to speak truth boldly, no matter the cost.
Charlie did more to bring the Gospel and truth to our young generation than any other person. I pray this tragedy magnifies all he has done.