Charlie Kirk Assassinated at Utah Debate Event; Old Tweet Resurfaces

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed on Wednesday, September 10, during a live debate event at Utah Valley University. The founder of Turning Point USA was about 20 minutes into his presentation when a single gunshot rang out, sparking panic among the 3,000 attendees. Disturbing videos showed Kirk recoiling before chaos erupted.

Emma Pitts, a reporter for Deseret News, described the scene: “We all dropped to the ground… then everyone started running.”

In the aftermath, a 2014 tweet from Kirk resurfaced, reading: “Did I just get shot by an AR-15? Feels like it.” The tweet went viral due to its eerie resemblance to the circumstances of his death. While authorities have not yet confirmed the weapon used, the AR-15—owned by an estimated 25 million U.S. civilians—has become notorious as the weapon of choice in many mass shootings.

Former President Donald Trump, a longtime ally of Kirk, announced his death on Truth Social, calling him a “legendary” figure who “had the heart of the youth in America.” Trump also ordered U.S. flags flown at half-mast nationwide in Kirk’s honor.

Vice President Kamala Harris also expressed condolences, stating on X: “Political violence has no place in America. I condemn this act.”

As tributes pour in across the political spectrum, the investigation into the shooting continues, and Kirk’s sudden death has reignited discussions around political violence and gun control in the U.S.