EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Federal, state and local leaders are sending their thoughts and prayers after Conservative political activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed on Wednesday, Sept. 10, during The American Comeback Tour at Utah Valley University.
In a statement from the university, shortly after 1 p.m., shots were fired at Kirk, according to our parent station, Nexstar.
Initially, the university said a suspect had been taken into custody, but a spokesperson has since said that person is not believed to be the shooter.
Later, President Donald Trump wrote the following Truth Social that Kirk had died at the age of 31.
“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead,” the president wrote on Truth Social. “No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”
Texas Senator Ted Cruz sent the following statement on X about Kirk’s death.
“Heidi and I are devastated and heartbroken. Charlie Kirk’s murder was an act of unspeakable evil. Charlie was a close friend; we first met when he was just 18, and Turning Point was a nascent idea. Charlie was courageous, brilliant, compassionate, and powerfully honest. He was a strong Christian who boldly proclaimed the Gospel. Charlie loved our country deeply, and we will forever remember him and honor his legacy. Heidi and I are praying for his wife Erika and their two young children, and all of his family and loved ones. May God’s comfort and love be upon them. May Charlie rest in peace, and may he forever rest in the loving embrace of the Lord.”
The following statements have been posted by lawmakers on X when Kirk was shot:
“We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!” Trump said.
“Dear God, protect Charlie in his darkest hour,” Vice President JD Vance said.
“Cecilia and I are praying for Charlie Kirk and for God’s healing hand to be upon him,” Texas Governor Greg Abbott said.
“Our prayers are with Charlie Kirk,” Cruz said.
“Praying for Charlie. Just horrific,” Texas Republican Senator John Cornyn said.
“The political violence in our country is horrifying – made more dangerous because of how easy it is to access guns in America. Praying for Charlie Kirk and his loved ones,” U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar said.
“My prayers are with Charlie Kirk and his family,” U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales said.
Senate Republican Leader of New Mexico, Bill Sharer, R-Farmington, released the following statement:
“On behalf of the New Mexico Senate Republican Caucus, our deepest thoughts and prayers are with Charlie Kirk and his family at this time. We totally condemn political violence in every form. Our country is founded on the principle of free speech, today’s disgusting actions undermine the very foundation of our democratic republic.”
“My thoughts are with Charlie Kirk, his wife and two kids after this horrifying attack. Political violence is never acceptable, and no one should ever have to go through this,” Rep. Gabe Vasquez said.
The university’s campus has been closed for the day, officials said.
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