Originally reported by The Epoch Times: Trump Promises to Identify Those Behind Charlie Kirk’s Death
In a deeply emotional address, President Donald Trump declared his intention to hunt down every individual connected to the fatal shooting of conservative figure Charlie Kirk. The president expressed his profound sadness and outrage during a national broadcast on Wednesday evening.
Trump proclaimed, “My administration will find all those who contributed to this horrifying act, as well as those organizations that fund and support such political violence.” His comments came in light of the shocking assassination that occurred as Kirk spoke at a scheduled event in Utah.
The alleged gunman, who opened fire during Kirk’s presentation, is still at large, stirring fears of ongoing political violence. Following the incident, authorities detained two individuals for questioning but later released them.
“Radical political violence has victimized far too many,” Trump lamented, urging Americans to embrace the values for which Kirk stood: free speech, citizenship, and a commitment to the rule of law. “This attack was an assault not just on Charlie, but on our entire nation.”
Utah Governor Spencer Cox underscored the politically charged nature of Kirk’s assassination, labeling it explicitly as a “political assassination” during a press briefing that evening.
Tragic Attack Amid Q&A Session
The shooting erupted while Kirk was engaging with the audience from a makeshift platform, discussing the sensitive topic of gun violence in America. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a gunshot just as a young audience member posed a question to him.
As the chaos unfurled, members of the audience screamed and dove for cover, cementing the urgency of the situation. The immediate response from those present demonstrated a mixture of horror and disbelief.
Manhunt for Suspect Continues
Despite the rapid questioning of two persons of interest, law enforcement has not apprehended the true perpetrator. A hasty arrest was made following the shooting, but that suspect was later exonerated.
According to FBI director Kash Patel, the investigation is ongoing, with the agency actively seeking tips from the public. The Salt Lake City FBI branch emphasizes that only one shooter is believed to have been involved in the attack.
Information remains limited, primarily gleaned from grainy campus security footage. Officials described the suspect as wearing dark clothing and suggested that the shot may have originated from an elevated position on campus.
Utah Valley University has since declared a campus lockdown, with all academic activities suspended until further notice, ensuring safety protocols are in place during the investigation.
Outpouring of Tributes
Substantial tributes have emerged for Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, who had become a prominent voice in conservative circles since the organization’s inception in 2012. President Trump has directed that flags be flown at half-mast until this Sunday in Kirk’s honor, dubbing him “a Great American Patriot.”
Vice President JD Vance conveyed his condolences via social media, while Governor Cox expressed heartbreak over the loss, extending prayers to Kirk’s family. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. described Kirk as “a fearless advocate for free speech,” stressing the legacy he leaves behind.
Political leaders from both sides have condemned the violence. Former President Barack Obama remarked on the senselessness of such acts, stating, “This kind of despicable violence has no place in our democracy.” Senator Chuck Schumer echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that political violence must not be tolerated in America.
Legacy of a Political Influencer
Since his emergence in the political arena, Charlie Kirk has set a mark as a significant influencer in conservative dialogue, particularly among youth. His strategies included engaging college students through provocative debates on critical issues ranging from healthcare to immigration.
Additionally, Kirk founded Turning Point Action in 2019 to bolster the election of conservative candidates and launched Turning Point Faith to involve faith leaders in political matters. He was also the voice behind “The Charlie Kirk Show,” which aired daily until his tragic death.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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