Charlie Kirk, the popular conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, has died at the age of 31 after being shot during a campus program at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem on Wednesday.

He was rushed to the hospital in critical condition but later passed away from his injuries, according to law enforcement officials.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the news in a post on Truth Social. He described Kirk as a “great and legendary” figure who understood the hearts of young Americans better than anyone.

Trump said Kirk was deeply loved and admired, especially by him, and extended his sympathy to Kirk’s wife Erika and their family.

The shooting took place at about 12:20 p.m. during a Turning Point USA stop at UVU, part of the group’s “American Comeback Tour.”

Video clips from the scene appeared to show Kirk being shot while speaking under a white tent. Witnesses said the event turned into chaos as people screamed and ran for safety.

Officials initially believed a suspect had been taken into custody, but the person was later released.

By Wednesday evening, police confirmed that the shooter was still at large. Both campus police and Orem officers said the investigation was ongoing.

The university immediately ordered a lockdown, later evacuating students one building at a time with police escorts. Roads leading to UVU were closed as more than 60 emergency vehicles from nearby agencies arrived at the scene.

Kirk, who co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012, built it into one of the most influential conservative youth movements in the United States.

He became a regular media commentator, podcast host, and strategist, recognized for inspiring and mobilizing young conservatives on campuses nationwide. He is survived by his wife, Erika, and their two children.

The news of his death has brought shock and sorrow across the country. Political leaders, allies, and student groups have expressed their grief and outrage, while police continue the manhunt for the suspect responsible.