Political ally shot dead, Trump orders flags to be flown at half mast in mourning

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Background of the event

Charlie Kirk is currently a very active political activist in the United States. He is the co-founder of the conservative non-profit organization "American Turning Point" and one of the most influential "internet celebrities" in the supporters of Trump's "Make America Great Again (MAGA)" campaign. Kirk's visit to Utah Valley University this time is a stop on his "Proving Me Wrong" speech tour. According to the event design, Kirk invited the audience to come on stage and debate political ideas with him. Local media reported that students at the school had previously jointly requested the cancellation of Kirk's speech event.

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Event Course

At around 12:10 pm local time on September 10, 2025, Charlie Kirk, the head of a conservative political organization in the United States, was shot at an event held in Utah. According to the on-site footage released by local media, at the time of the shooting, Kirk was wearing a white round neck shirt and sitting in the center of an outdoor podium. Suddenly, a gunshot rang out and Kirk covered his neck with his hand, but did not immediately fall down. The scene was chaotic and people scattered in all directions. About 3 hours after the incident, Trump posted on social media that Kirk had died.

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incident handling

On the evening of September 10, 2025 local time, FBI Director Kash Patel posted on social media that the suspect who shot Kirk has been arrested.

Trump extends condolences to his wife and family. Trump also ordered the national flag to be lowered to half mast in mourning, which lasted until 6pm on the 14th.

On September 10, 2025 local time, FBI Director Kash Patel announced that the suspect who was detained for shooting prominent conservative activist Charlie Kirk has been released after being interrogated by law enforcement. He stated that the investigation is still ongoing and information will continue to be released to maintain transparency.

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incident response

On September 10, 2025, Trump and former US President Biden issued a statement on social media in response.

Trump posted three articles on social media, saying, "We must pray for Charlie Kirk who was shot. He was a thoroughly good person." "The legendary Charlie Kirk has died... he was loved and admired by everyone, especially me, and now he has left us. Melania and I express sympathy to his family." "In honor of Charlie Kirk, I order all flags in the United States to be flown at half mast until 6:00 pm on Sunday.

Former US President Biden posted on social media that day, "Our country cannot tolerate this kind of violence. It must end now. Jill and I are praying for Charlie Kirk's family and loved ones.