President Donald Trump on Wednesday confirmed the death of Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, following a fatal shooting at a university event in Utah.

“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. “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!”

Speaking with ABC News’ Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl, Trump called the event “horrific” and “one of the most horrible things I’ve ever seen.”

“He was a good man. An incredible guy. Nobody like him,” the president added.

Kirk was reportedly shot during an event held at Utah Valley University. The shooting prompted an outpouring of support from conservative leaders and top Trump administration officials, many of whom initially posted prayers and messages of hope before Trump’s confirmation of his death.

The FBI, led by Director Kash Patel, issued a statement saying the agency was “closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting involving Charlie Kirk” and had deployed agents to the scene. “The FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation,” Patel said.

Kirk, known for his role in shaping young conservative discourse across college campuses, had long been a key ally of Trump and his political circle. His organization, Turning Point USA, became a central force in mobilizing right-wing youth activism.

Vice President JD Vance was among the first to publicly acknowledge the shooting, writing on X:

“Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father.” He later shared a photograph of himself with Kirk and Donald Trump Jr.

At the Pentagon, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth added:

“Prayers for Charlie Kirk. An incredible Christian, American, and human being. May the healing hand of Jesus Christ be upon him.”

Authorities have not yet released details about the shooter’s identity, motive, or how the attack unfolded. Officials say the investigation is still in its early stages and law enforcement is actively pursuing leads.

Kirk’s death marks a significant loss for conservative politics in the U.S., especially among Gen Z and millennial activists who viewed him as a mentor and national figurehead.