Nigel Farage has paid an emotional tribute to Charlie Kirk following the conservative activist's death in a shooting at Utah Valley University.

Speaking on GB News, Nigel described Mr Kirk as someone he had known for a decade and considered a close friend.

"I met Charlie Kirk 10 years ago. I knew Charlie Kirk, I had been to his studios in Arizona and I spoke at Turning Point rallies. I was with him in London trying to get Turning Point UK off the ground," Nigel said in an emotional tribute.

The Reform UK leader praised Mr Kirk's work in engaging young people through his organisation Turning Point, which he established to promote conservative values at American universities.

Nigel Farage has paid tribute to the conservative activist, who was shot dead aged 31

Nigel characterised Kirk as "a very happy, committed family man" with "fundamentally strong, Christian beliefs."

Mr Kirk, aged 31, was fatally shot whilst conducting a question-and-answer session with students at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah on Wednesday.

Witnesses reported that a bullet struck Mr Kirk in the neck as he responded to a student's query about mass shooters, according to reports.

The conservative commentator was immediately transported to hospital by his security team but later died from his injuries.

Charlie Kirk was speaking at a campus event in Utah | REUTERS

President Donald Trump confirmed Mr Kirk's death through a post on Truth Social, calling him "Great, and even Legendary."

Federal authorities have joined the investigation, with Attorney General Pam Bondi confirming FBI involvement alongside local law enforcement.

Whilst an individual was initially detained, they were subsequently released as authorities continue searching for the gunman.

Nigel highlighted Mr Kirk's extraordinary influence in American politics, noting that "President Trump regarded him very highly indeed."

Nigel Farage joined Charlie Peters on GB News to pay tribute to the late activist

He described Mr Kirk as "an important part in reviving belief in very good values" and praised his relentless work ethic.

"Charlie's work rate was ridiculous, he just kept going and going, and he was an incredible broadcaster," Nigel stated. He characterised Mr Kirk as "fun to be with, lively conversation and full of energy."

The British politician called the incident "a very dark day for American democracy, Western democracy and free speech." He emphasised his desire to remember Kirk as "a friend" and "the most extraordinary political influencer."

Mr Kirk leaves behind his wife Erika Frantzve and their two children.

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot in the neck at event at Utah Valley University | GB NEWS

Nigel expressed concern about the apparent professionalism of the attack, noting that "the fact you get shot from 200 yards and it's hit someone in the neck suggests the person was professional." He drew a distinction with the previous attempt on Trump's life, stating "the person who shot Trump wasn't."

The British politician warned about increasing political divisions in America, reflecting on his recent visit to Capitol Hill. "It's so partisan and divided. We aren't far behind," he said, adding that "there are voices that wish to shut down free speech and these are all very dangerous things."

Nigel cautioned that whilst the shooter's identity and motivation remained unknown, the incident would have significant repercussions.

"Don't underestimate what the reaction in America will be, it will be huge," he warned.