In what appeared to be a calculated assassination that has sparked fears of rising political violence in the United States, right-wing youth activist and prominent ally of President Donald Trump, Charlie Kirk, was shot and killed on Wednesday while participating in an event at Utah Valley University in the western U.S.

Kirk, a leading voice among pro-Trump youth, was shot in the neck while delivering a speech on campus. A video from the scene shows Kirk addressing a large crowd when a single gunshot rang out. He appeared to collapse from his chair as the camera jolted and screams of panic erupted from the audience.

“Legendary”

President Trump confirmed Kirk’s death on social media, stating that the 31-year-old succumbed to his injuries quickly. On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “The great, even legendary, Charlie Kirk has died.” He ordered flags across the United States to be flown at half-staff for a week in mourning for the “patriot” Kirk.

The university announced on its website, “Around noon local time, guest speaker Charlie Kirk was shot. He was removed from the building by his personal security team.”

 A Conservative Icon

Kirk was known for his powerful oratory and co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012 to promote conservative views among young Americans. He became a prominent figure representing the far-right youth movement on television and at conferences.

He also leveraged his massive following on Instagram and YouTube to rally support for Trump’s policies.

News of the shooting drew widespread condemnation across the political spectrum, with leading figures from the right paying tribute to Kirk.