UPDATE: Charlie Kirk tragically passed away after he was shot during his Utah event. President Donald Trump issued a statement expressing his sadness at the news, his admiration for Kirk, and condolences for his family.
“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. 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,” said President Trump
Conservative Commentator Charlie Kirk was shot during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah on Wednesday, and his condition remains unknown.
Extremely graphic video footage shows Kirk apparently being shot in the neck at the event, before bleeding profusely and collapsing.
Kirk was reportedly transported to a hospital, but his condition is currently unknown.
Video emerged of police taking a person into custody, whom many sources alleged to be the shooter, though the New York Times reported that the man arrested was not responsible for the shooting.
The horrific shooting has prompted calls from political commentators and politicians to pray for Kirk’s survival and for his family.
“We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM,” said President Donald Trump.
The shooting prompted a response from Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Rep. Jared Golden (D-Maine).
“There is just no justification for the political violence that we’re seeing in this country. I am very upset at the shooting of Charlie Kirk. He’s a father with young children. He travels to college campuses to interact with young people,” said Sen. Collins.
“He’s a wonderful person, and this is just appalling. When you think about this on top of the horrific murder of the young woman from Ukraine. And that followed the shooting of young Catholic children at mass. It makes you wonder what is going on in our country that this kind of violence is so prevalent,” she added.
“If someone can be shot for views you detest, then they can be shot for views you hold dear. That’s why a free nation cannot tolerate political violence. My prayers are with Charlie Kirk and his family, and I am grateful for the speed and heroism of first responders,” said Rep. Golden.
Kirk spoke at a Maine Civic Coalition event last month.
Gov. Janet Mills (D-Maine) also issued a statement condemning political violence.
“In America, differing views — regardless of who holds them and how much you may detest them — should never be met with violence. I am horrified by what has happened to Charlie Kirk,” she said.
Update: Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) and Rep Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) also issued statements condemning political violence.
“Political violence goes against the democratic values of our nation. This isn’t about Democrats & Republicans. It’s about protecting the ideals in our Constitution to peacefully assemble & exchange ideas. We can challenge each other’s views without violence. It’s common sense,” said Sen. King.
“Political violence has no place in our country. Not now, not ever. I’m horrified by this attack, and truly hope Charlie makes a full recovery. College campuses should be places where dialogue, debate, and mutual respect are upheld. This kind of violence must be condemned in the strongest terms,” said Rep. Pingree.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
