ALLENDALE, Mich. — Conservative political commentator and Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed Wednesday during an event at Utah Valley University, officials said.
Kirk was participating in a college tour event where he engaged with students through political debates when a single shot was fired, striking him in the neck, according to officials.
The shooting occurred during what was part of Kirk's regular college speaking circuit. Turning Point USA, the conservative youth organization Kirk co-founded, has chapters across the country, including at Grand Valley State University.
Wednesday night, students, local leaders and families gathered to remember and grieve Kirk's death.
Darren Fife, a senior and past president of GVSU's chapter, attended the vigil. Fife said he met Kirk two years ago in Detroit.
"I can't believe Charlie Kirk is dead. He was a great model American citizen, well outspoken; truly an encouragement for traditional values, the new generation, and definitely brought that out in a lot of people," Fife said.
Fife shared a message with the group amid several prayers and described his shock at seeing images of the shooting, an experience shared by many Americans.
He told Fox 17 that Kirk's death represents a troubling sign of political violence in current times, referencing last year's assassination attempts on former President Donald Trump.
Despite the tragedy, Fife expressed hope that Kirk's work would continue.
"I hope that Turning Point USA movement is able to continue forward and use Charlie Kirk's image and messages going forward so that the movement will continue and not die. Conservatism, I believe, is growing in American politics and the younger generation," Fife said.
Organizers had concerns about potential counter-protesters or opposition at the vigil, but anyone was allowed to speak at the event.
One person came forward to challenge what they said Kirk stood for and what they called a celebration of his life. The person shared their thoughts with the group and then left.
Organizers and local leaders said that person's ability to speak their mind and exercise their First Amendment rights represented what Kirk stood for.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
Follow FOX 17: Facebook - X (formerly Twitter) - Instagram - YouTube
