UVU alum Tyler Teasdale witnessed the shooting and reported seeing bodyguards immediately carry Kirk into a black SUV, which sped away with the door still open. Many attendees fled through a campus fountain as they sought safety.

The gunshot occurred just before 12:30 p.m., after someone had asked Kirk a question about mass shootings, according to UVU student Dallin Gilbertson.

• Kirk was 31 years old. He founded Turning Point USA at the age of 18. Reuters | The Guardian
• He was deeply involved with conservative youth movements, political commentary, and frequently involved in speaking engagements at universities. The Guardian
• Known for holding outdoor campus debates and “Prove Me Wrong” events at universities across the country.

The shooting has prompted widespread condemnation across party lines, with many political leaders calling for an end to political violence.

Some right-wing commentators and influencers have used strong language in response to the shooting, with calls for heightened security and investigations into political violence.