Utah, USA – Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, a key ally of President Donald Trump, was shot dead while delivering a speech at Utah Valley University on September 10. The shocking incident has sparked nationwide grief and renewed concerns about political violence in the United States.
Shooting at Utah Valley University
Gunfire erupted at around 12:20 p.m. local time (11:20 p.m. Hanoi time) as Kirk, 31, addressed an audience of nearly 3,000 people at the university campus in Orem, Utah. Witnesses reported that Kirk suddenly clutched his neck before collapsing.
Video clips shared online captured the chaotic moment of the shooting, as the crowd screamed and rushed for safety. Authorities believe the shooter may have fired from a rooftop. The suspect remains at large.
“This is a dark day for our state and a painful moment for our nation,” Utah Governor Spencer Cox said, calling the attack a politically motivated assassination.
Trump Mourns “Legendary” Ally
President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death on social media, calling him “great, even legendary” and praising his deep connection with America’s youth.
“No one understood and connected with young Americans better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by so many, especially by me,” Trump wrote, announcing flags across the U.S. would be flown at half-staff until September 14.
Witness Accounts of Chaos
Former Utah Congressman Jason Chaffetz, who was present, described the moments before the attack.
“Kirk was answering a question about mass shootings when the gunfire erupted. He collapsed immediately. People screamed and ran,” Chaffetz told Fox News.
Another attendee, Sophie Anderson, 45, recalled: “He was shot in the neck, and there was blood everywhere. It was horrifying.”
Who Was Charlie Kirk?
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Founder of Turning Point USA, America’s largest conservative youth organization.
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Host of the popular Charlie Kirk Show podcast and frequent Fox News contributor.
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Amassed over 5.3 million followers on X (Twitter).
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Played a critical role in mobilizing young voters for Trump’s 2024 presidential comeback.
Kirk’s sudden death is seen as a major blow to the conservative movement and to Trump’s support base among young voters.
A Nation in Shock
Law enforcement agencies have sealed off the scene and are questioning potential suspects. Meanwhile, political leaders and commentators across the spectrum are calling for calm as investigations continue.
The Utah Valley University shooting is expected to reignite debates about gun violence, political extremism, and security at public events in the U.S.
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Source: Vietnam Insider