Conservative activist Charlie Kirk shot dead in Utah

Updated 17:10- Moments after president Donald Trump announced the death of Charlie Kirk, authorities confirmed the information.

Updated 16:20 – CNN reports that there is actually no suspect in custody.

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Divisive American Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk has reportedly been shot while speaking at an event at a Utah College on Wednesday, NBC News reported.

What we know

Charlie Kirk was giving a speech at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, September 10, when witnesses heard a gunshot, followed by Kirk falling to his left while moving a hand to his neck.

A university spokesperson told Reuters in an email: “A shot was fired from a nearby building and we have a suspect in custody.”

Credited by Donald Trump for securing the 2024 election

Kirk, 31, has made a career for himself touring college campuses to debate students.

He was credited by Donald Trump for securing the 2024 election for the Republican Party, with Trump saying:

“I won the young people by 37%. No Republican’s ever won and I won by 37%. And Charlie Kirk will tell you, TikTok helped, but Charlie Kirk helped also.”

Politicians on both sides of the aisle, across the United States, have already voiced their disapproval with the violent action, wishing their “hopes and prayers” to the pro-gun activist.

Kirk was making comments on trans people and gun violence when the attack happened, according to some sources.

Regional police have neither confirmed nor denied that the action was politically motivated.