Charlie Kirk, the American conservative commentator and founder of the organization Turning Point USA (which aimed to promote conservative ideas among students and young people), has died at the age of 31 after a shooting during a public event in Utah.
The incident shocked the American political community and media, prompting numerous reactions from public figures and citizens, while the motive for the attack and who is responsible are being investigated. Kirk, married and the father of two young children, was known for his strong political views and for his influence among young conservatives in the United States.
Chris Pratt wrote on X:
"Pray for Charlie Kirk now, for his wife and young children, for our country. We need God's mercy. God help us."
Dave Portnoy said the event is not a Republican or Democrat issue:
“RIP Charlie Kirk. It doesn’t matter what your opinion of him or his politics is, if you don’t see this as one of the darkest days in American history, then you’re part of the problem.”
Former "The View" host Meghan McCain responded with a strong message:
“Rest in peace Charlie Kirk. The footprints you left in the world will always be a blessing and a memory. We pray for your eternal rest with our Lord. May God bless your family always and be with your children and wife Erika.”
She then added:
"If you think you're going to intimidate and silence conservatives from speaking up and fighting for truth, God, America, family, and the soul of our country, you've never known us."
Meanwhile, former racing driver Danica Patrick called the situation an "epidemic of mental illness":
"What is wrong with people? We have an epidemic of mental illness. I am praying hard for his family and for everyone who knew and loved him."
Jake Paul wrote:
“Charlie Kirk was shot for the truth. There is so much madness today. We need God more than ever. Pray for Charlie's family and for these evil people to heal.”
Piers Morgan called the attack "disgusting":
"A disgusting attack on free speech and democracy. Charlie always welcomed debate, with anyone. This is defamatory and heartbreaking. RIP Charlie."
Brett Favre, the former NFL star, said he was speechless:
"Simply tragic. Please keep Charlie Kirk and his family in your prayers..."
Writer Stephen King saw the event as another example of gun violence in America:
“The motive of the man who shot Charlie Kirk is unclear (maybe he was mentally unstable – duh). But what is clear: another example of gun violence in America.”
Donald Trump, who considered Kirk a close ally, announced his death on Truth Social:
"The Great and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, has passed away. No one understood America's Youth better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by EVERYONE, especially me, and now he is no longer with us. Melania and I extend our condolences to his beautiful wife Erika and family. Charlie, we love you!"
Kirk was married to former Miss Arizona USA, Erika Frantzve, with whom he had a 3-year-old daughter and a 1-year-old son.
Many other celebrities, including John Owen Lowe, Candace Cameron Bure, Gracie Hunt, Bernie Sanders and Jimmy Kimmel expressed their condolences, condemning political violence and calling for unity.
Senator Bernie Sanders said:
"Political violence has no place in this country. We must condemn this horrific attack. My thoughts are with Charlie Kirk and his family."
Jimmy Kimmel added:
"Instead of pointing fingers in anger, can we just for one day acknowledge that it is horrific and monstrous to shoot another human being? On behalf of my family, we send love to the Kirk family and all victims of senseless gun violence."
