Turning Point USA praised co-founder Charlie Kirk‘s Christian faith and commitment to “good-faith debate” in a statement Thursday following his death.
Kirk, 31, died on Wednesday after he was shot in the neck by an unidentified gunman at Utah Valley University. Kirk left behind his wife, Erika, and two young children.
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TPUSA said it was “crushed and devastated by the hateful murder” of the conservative activist and sent its prayers to Kirk’s grieving family. He was described as “the ideal husband and the perfect father.”
“More than anyone, Charlie believed in the power of argument and good-faith debate to find the truth and guide people towards, if not agreement, then at least mutual understanding,” the statement read. “Charlie was no stranger to threats. He received thousands throughout his life.”
“But he always prioritized reaching as many young Americans as possible over his own personal safety,” it continued. “Now, Charlie has become America’s greatest martyr to the freedom of speech he so adored.”
VANCE TO FLY WITH CHARLIE KIRK’S CASKET ON AIR FORCE TWO WITH HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Kirk launched TPUSA in 2012 at the age of 18. He was well known for hosting events on college campuses, where he would debate students and host Q&A sessions. He died at one of his events.
His death triggered an outpouring of grief and anger on social media from Republicans and Democrats alike. Among the most notable were President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, both of whom knew Kirk well when they ran for office last year. Vance is flying his friend’s casket from Salt Lake City to Phoenix on Air Force Two later Thursday. The Kirks will be present.