Kai Trump, granddaughter of former President Donald Trump, expresses deep sorrow over the fatal shooting of her “close family friend” Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.

In a tragic and shocking turn of events on Wednesday, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University, prompting an outpouring of grief and condolences from family, friends, and public figures across the nation.

Among those expressing deep sorrow was Kai Trump, granddaughter of former President Donald Trump, who described Kirk as a “close family friend” and shared heartfelt condolences to his family.

The shooting occurred just after noon at approximately 12:20 p.m. local time during Kirk’s “American Comeback Tour” event, held under a white pop-up tent on the campus in Orem, Utah.

Eyewitness videos circulated widely on social media, showing the moment Kirk was struck by gunfire while addressing a large crowd.

Following the incident, campus authorities issued an emergency alert stating, “A single shot was fired on campus toward a visiting speaker. Police are investigating now.”

In the aftermath of the shooting, President Donald Trump took to social media to announce Kirk’s death. “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead.

No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us.

Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!” the former president wrote in a widely shared post at 4:40 p.m. ET on Wednesday.

Kai Trump echoed the family’s heartbreak on her Instagram Stories, posting, “I am deeply saddened to hear the news about Charlie Kirk. My heart goes out to his wife Erika and their two children.

He was a close family friend and our thoughts and prayers are with them during this tragic time. Rest in peace Charlie.”

Charlie Kirk, aged 31, was a prominent conservative media personality and co-founder of Turning Point USA, a nonprofit organization that advocates for conservative political causes among young Americans.

Known for his close ties to former President Trump and his powerful influence on right-wing youth, Kirk was considered one of the most recognizable voices in the conservative movement.

His death sent shockwaves through political circles and beyond, highlighting the growing concern about political violence in the United States.

In addition to the Trump family, several notable public figures and sports personalities expressed their condolences. Former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “I’m shocked and devastated to learn about the passing of Charlie Kirk.

Above all else, Charlie was a follower of Jesus, a husband, and a dad. He was a man of passion, courage, and devoted his life to make an eternal impact.”

NFL legend Brett Favre also weighed in, stating, “I’m at a loss for words. Only thing I can think of is tragic. Please keep Charlie Kirk and his family in your prayers.”

Others such as former New England Patriots receiver Julian Edelman and World Series champion Mark Teixeira, who recently announced a congressional run, shared their thoughts and prayers as well.

The tragedy has cast a somber shadow over Utah Valley University, which scrambled to respond quickly to the violent incident.

Ellen Treanor, Associate Vice President of Strategic Communication Management at Utah Valley University, told Fox News that law enforcement and campus officials acted immediately after the shooting, locking down the campus and cooperating with authorities to investigate the case.

Security footage and eyewitness accounts have become crucial in the ongoing investigation, with authorities searching for leads as the suspect remains unidentified and at large.

Kirk’s murder has stirred widespread debate on campus safety, political violence, and the state of political discourse in America.

Charlie Kirk’s impact extended beyond his media presence; he played a pivotal role in mobilizing young conservatives through Turning Point USA, which he co-founded at the age of 18.

His close alliance with Donald Trump and other GOP leaders helped catapult him into the national spotlight, where he became a symbol of youth-driven conservative activism.

This violent attack on a figure so closely associated with the conservative movement has ignited discussions about the dangers of polarized political rhetoric and the need for unity in an increasingly divided nation.

Vigils and memorials have since been held across the country, with supporters and mourners coming together to honor Kirk’s legacy and call for healing.

As the investigation into the shooting continues, the nation watches closely, grappling with the ramifications of this devastating loss.

Kirk’s death is a stark reminder of the fragile nature of safety for public figures, especially those involved in contentious political arenas. His family, friends, and supporters remain united in grief, remembering him as a passionate advocate for their shared values.

The community, including Utah Valley University, remains vigilant, hoping for justice to be served and for measures to be put in place to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The story of Charlie Kirk’s life and untimely death will likely continue to influence political and social conversations for months to come.

For those wishing to support Kirk’s family or learn more about the incident, ongoing updates will be provided as details unfold.