A nationwide manhunt is underway after conservative activist Charlie Kirk, 31, was gunned down during a college event in Utah on Wednesday — an attack that has shaken the United States and reignited fears over rising political violence.
Authorities confirmed the suspect, described as a man of college age, remains at large. Investigators recovered the rifle used in the killing and a screwdriver allegedly used to modify the weapon. Disturbing phrases tied to cultural and political issues were scrawled on the firearm and ammunition. While no motive has been determined, the FBI released photos of the suspect on Thursday and announced a $100,000 reward for information leading to his capture.
Trump Promises Posthumous Medal of Freedom
President Donald Trump, mourning Kirk as “a giant of his generation,” vowed to award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously.
“Charlie was a champion of liberty and an inspiration to millions,” Trump said during a 9/11 memorial ceremony. “We miss him deeply, but his courage and voice will live on.”
The award ceremony, Trump added, would be held soon and expected to draw “a very big crowd” in celebration of Kirk’s life and legacy.
Leaders Condemn Violence
Reactions poured in across the political spectrum. Vice President Kamala Harris called the attack “deeply disturbing,” stressing that “political violence has no place in America.” Senator Bernie Sanders described the killing as “horrifying” and urged unity against extremism.
Lawmakers are already weighing tighter security for campus and town hall events. Deputy Secretary of State Chris Landau warned that foreigners in the U.S. who glorify or trivialize the killing could face visa revocations. “Violence and hatred have no place in this country,” he said.
Kirk’s Life and Legacy
Charlie Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012, transforming it into one of the nation’s most influential conservative youth organizations. A lifelong Republican activist, he later launched The Charlie Kirk Show, amplifying causes such as limited government, gun rights, and immigration restrictions.
Kirk rose to national prominence as a close Trump ally, leading Students for Trump in 2019 and spearheading outreach to Gen Z voters. Admirers describe him as a tireless strategist who energized a new generation of conservatives.
