New York: Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and close ally of US President Donald Trump, was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University.
According to witness accounts and footage from the scene, the 31-year-old was addressing a question about gun violence when a single gunshot was heard around 12:20 local time. Kirk was then seen flinching in his chair, with blood gushing from his neck.
Kirk was rushed to hospital in a private vehicle.
President Donald Trump confirmed his death hours later. He described the the killing “an assassination” and as a “dark day for America”. “I am filled with grief and anger at the heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk.Charlie inspired millions and tonight all who knew him and loved him are united in shock and horror,” he said in a four-minute video.
Trump blamed rhetoric from the “radical left” for causing political violence.
The shooter is believed to have fired once from a nearby roof of a building near the courtyard, the Utah Department of Public Safety, which is leading the investigation along with the FBI, said.
While a manhunt is still underway, the FBI has sought information, photos or videos related to the incident.
Kirk recently opposed Indian visas, sparking debate.
