Charlie Kirk Killed
Charlie Kirk, a prominent voice among young conservatives, was assassinated on Wednesday.
What happened?
The 31-year-old was speaking at an outdoor Q&A at Utah Valley University when a single bullet was fired, striking him in the neck. Video shows Kirk discussing mass shootings involving transgender individuals before he collapses; security rushed him to the hospital, where he died. President Trump confirmed the activist’s death on Truth Social.
The university quickly went into lockdown while police searched for the shooter alongside the FBI. Authorities questioned and released two suspects shortly after the shooting.
Have they found the shooter?
Not yet.
The FBI has released images of the person of interest, offering a $100,000 reward for information. They believe he is a college-aged male who fled into a nearby neighborhood after the shooting.
Tell me more about Charlie Kirk.
Kirk was best known for co-founding Turning Point USA—a conservative youth organization active on more than 3,500 college campuses—when he was 18 years old. He hosted a popular podcast and “Prove Me Wrong” debates, where he often referenced his faith in Christ, and played a prominent role in helping the Trump campaign reach young voters in 2024.
He was married with two young children.
How have people responded to the assassination?
Political figures on both sides of the aisle—from President Trump to former President Obama—have offered Kirk’s family condolences and condemned the violence.
Trump ordered flags to be flown at half-staff through Sunday and announced that the “giant of his generation” will be posthumously awarded the Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor.
PRAY WITH US
God of mercy, come near. Come near to the family of Charlie Kirk as their world rips apart. Come near to the community that is shaken and gripped by fear. Come near to us as this act of violence unravels any sense of security, shatters any semblance of peace.
Emmanuel, you entered a violent world and suffered at the hands of violent men to buy a costly redemption. You have come near in bitter darkness. We cling to you. We depend on you for justice and for hope. Amen.
(Scriptural basis: Isaiah 53:3-5; Matthew 1:20-2:18)
Want more prayers to help you bring overwhelming headlines before the Lord? Click to be subscribed to our not-yet-released Praying the News email newsletter.