Washington, DC [US], September 11 (ANI): US President Donald Trump on Thursday announced that conservative activist Charlie Kirk will be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor.
Speaking at a ceremony outside the Pentagon marking the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Trump said the upcoming event honoring Kirk would be significant. “I can only guarantee you one thing: That will have a very big crowd,” he remarked.
Trump opened his address by paying tribute to Kirk, describing him as a close ally and inspiration. “Let me express the horror and grief so many Americans, at the heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk, have felt,” he said.
“Charlie was a giant of his generation, a champion of liberty and an inspiration to millions and millions of people. Our prayers are with his wonderful wife, Erika, and his beautiful children. Fantastic people,” Trump continued. “We miss him greatly. Yet I have no doubt that Charlie’s voice and the courage he put into the hearts of countless people, especially young people, will live on.”
Kirk, a right-wing political commentator and conservative activist, was shot in the neck on Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University, The New York Times reported. According to a university spokesperson, Kirk was about 20 minutes into his presentation when gunshots were fired from a nearby building.
The university informed students that “a single shot was fired on campus toward a visiting speaker,” and confirmed that Kirk was the only person struck during the incident. A suspect has since been taken into custody.
Video footage from the scene showed students fleeing after hearing gunfire. In one clip, Kirk appeared to fall back as blood came from his neck. He had been sitting under a tent with the slogan “The American Comeback” when the shooting occurred, according to The New York Times.
A spokeswoman for the FBI’s Utah office said agents were responding to the scene. FBI Director Kash Patel wrote on X, “We are closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting involving Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected. Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation.”
At least three videos posted on social media on Wednesday showed Kirk being struck by apparent gunfire while giving his speech.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox said he is being regularly briefed by law enforcement. On X, he wrote, “We will continue to share updates. Those responsible will be held fully accountable. Violence has no place in our public life.”
Republican lawmakers swiftly condemned the attack. Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina called the shooting a “sick and despicable attack.” Senators Ted Cruz of Texas and Katie Britt of Alabama also said they were praying for Kirk. (ANI)
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