The chair of the Republican National Committee, Joe Gruters, released a statement on the shooting death of Turning Point USA founder and CEO Charlie Kirk earlier Wednesday, calling it "utterly appalling."
Kirk, 31, was fatally shot at a question-and-answer session with students at Utah Valley University in Orem.
"Charlie Kirk was a father, husband, and dedicated patriot who spent his life defending conservative values and inspiring young Americans. Our hearts break for his wife, children, loved ones, and countless supporters across the country. The horrifying violence at Utah Valley University that took the life of Charlie Kirk is utterly appalling. Republicans and Democrats alike must stand united in condemning this brutality that has no place in America," Gruters said.
No suspect is in custody as of late Wednesday afternoon, though the school said earlier that police did have someone in custody. University spokesperson Scott Trotter also said in a statement that no suspect is in custody.
Another university spokesperson, Ellen Treanor, said that Kirk was shot about 20 minutes after he began speaking on campus, according to The New York Times. She said the killer fired from the Losee Center, a building about 200 yards away.
Treanor said Kirk was taken away by his security team and driven to a hospital, where he reportedly underwent emergency surgery.
Mark Swanson ✉
Mark Swanson, a Newsmax writer and editor, has nearly three decades of experience covering news, culture and politics.
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