…Kirk was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital by his security detail, but efforts to save his life were unsuccessful.
OREM, UTAH, USA – The iNews Times | Authorities in Utah have launched a full-scale manhunt for the individual responsible for the fatal shooting of prominent American conservative activist, Charlie Kirk, during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
The 31-year-old political commentator, known for his combative public debates and close alignment with former President Donald Trump, was delivering a live discussion when he was shot by a rooftop sniper. The Utah Department of Public Safety confirmed that Kirk was struck in the carotid artery by a single bullet fired by a figure dressed in dark clothing who appeared briefly on the rooftop before disappearing from sight.
“There is an ongoing investigation and manhunt for the shooter,” officials said during a press conference, noting that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is now fully engaged in the case.
Kirk was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital by his security detail, but efforts to save his life were unsuccessful. News of his death was later confirmed by Donald Trump via his Truth Social platform, where the former president mourned the loss of what he called “a patriot and fearless voice.”
Authorities reported that two individuals were initially taken into custody during the early hours of the investigation but were later released after being cleared of direct ties to the shooting. However, one of the individuals was charged with obstruction of university police, though the nature of the obstruction remains unclear.
Mayor of Orem City, David Young, expressed deep shock at the incident, calling it unprecedented in the city’s recent history.
“Orem is about 100,000 people strong who live here. We are a very peaceful, safe, engaged, kind community. We just don’t have this sort of thing here,” Young said. “I can’t think of the last time someone was murdered. It just doesn’t happen. And so to have someone like Charlie Kirk come to our college and have this happen is horrific.”
The killing has sent shockwaves across the political landscape and college campuses nationwide, with many calling for tighter security measures during public debates and speaking events.
No motive has yet been confirmed, and officials have urged the public to come forward with any information that could assist in locating the shooter.
As the investigation intensifies, the political and security implications of this high-profile assassination are still unfolding.