The murder of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk has sent shockwaves across the U.S.
The 31-year-old conservative activist was fatally shot while answering questions at a rally at Utah Valley University.
Here are the defiant words he spoke moments before the attack.
Responded confidently
Charlie Kirk, CEO and co-founder of the conservative youth group Turning Point USA, has died at 31 after being shot during an event at a Utah college.
Donald Trump, who called Kirk a “very, very good friend,” shared the news on Truth Social:
“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. 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!”
The tragedy unfolded when an audience member approached the microphone to challenge Kirk on mass shootings.
“Do you know many transgender Americans have been shooters over the last 10 years?” the individual asked.
Kirk responded confidently, “Too many,” as the crowd erupted in applause.
When the same person insisted the number was five and asked about total mass shooters over the past decade, Kirk replied, “Counting or not counting gang violence?” These were his final words, according to Daily Mail.
Moments later, a single gunshot rang out, striking Kirk in the neck.
