Charlie Kirk, Founder of Turning Point USA and Trump Ally, Shot and Killed at 31
WHEATON, Ill. — Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of conservative group Turning Point USA, was fatally shot Tuesday night after an event near Chicago. The shooting occurred around 7 p.m. in a conference center parking lot as Kirk was leaving a speaking engagement. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
No suspects are in custody, and the shooter’s motive remains unknown. The FBI has joined the investigation.
Kirk was a prominent ally of President Donald Trump and a key figure in conservative youth mobilization. His death has drawn intense reactions across the political spectrum. Trump denounced the shooting on Truth Social, blaming “left-wing thugs,” while President Biden called for unity and condemned political violence.
Turning Point USA, which Kirk started in 2012, grew into a major force in Republican politics. Known for his strong conservative views and media presence, Kirk was also a controversial figure, often criticized for inflammatory rhetoric.
The assassination has sparked renewed concerns about political violence in the U.S. and leaves a significant void in conservative youth outreach. Kirk is survived by his parents and a sister.
