Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, died Wednesday at age 31 after being shot during an event at Utah Valley University. President Donald Trump confirmed the news on Truth Social, calling Kirk “loved and admired by ALL, especially me.”

Kirk was a prominent figure in modern conservative politics, credited with energizing young voters and shaping the populist direction of the Republican Party during Trump’s rise. A college dropout, Kirk launched Turning Point in 2012 at just 18, building it into a national organization with influence across campuses and churches.

His sudden death sent shockwaves through both sides of the political spectrum, prompting renewed calls to end political violence. It comes amid a disturbing trend of attacks on public figures — from the attempted assassination of Trump in Pennsylvania last year to the recent killing of a Minnesota state lawmaker and her husband.

Kirk was speaking on mass shootings during the first stop of his 14-city “American Comeback Tour” when the tragedy occurred. Known for his fiery campus appearances and viral debates, Kirk leaves behind a controversial but undeniable legacy as a leading voice for young conservatives in America.