UPDATE 3:58 p.m. — President Donald Trump announced Charlie Kirk, 31, has died. The suspect originally taken into custody was released by authorities after it was determined he was not the shooter. The FBI continues to investigate. 

“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead,” Trump wrote.

“No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”

Kirk was appearing outdoors on campus as part of his American Comeback Tour when a single gunshot rang out and he collapsed.

Graphic videos from bystanders show him clutching his neck as attendees scattered. He was transported to a hospital, where he died. Federal agencies including the FBI and ATF responded to assist the investigation.

Alabama’s top officials called for prayers after the heartbreaking news.

“Please join Wesley and me in praying for Charlie Kirk’s family and for our nation as they mourn this unbelievable tragedy. My heart breaks for his loved ones-especially his wife and two children he leaves behind,” U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) wrote.

“Charlie was a leading voice in the conservative movement who brought countless young Americans into the fold of American politics. He was fearless, and started important conversations in our discourse not only throughout the country, but throughout the world. Most importantly, he was a loving father and husband.”

“Political violence has reached new heights and become a true sickness in our nation. Please pray for our country,” Britt wrote.

According to the Alabama Republican Party, Kirk was not only a national leader in the conservative movement but also a longtime friend of ALGOP Chairman John Wahl.

“My heart is breaking at the devastating news of Charlie Kirk’s death. Charlie dedicated his life to inspiring and energizing conservative young people across the country, giving them hope and a voice in America’s future. His loss is not only a tragedy for his family and loved ones, but for an entire generation that he empowered to stand for freedom,” said ALGOP Chairman John Wahl.

“Charlie leaves behind his beautiful wife and two loving children, who were the world to him. Our prayers are with them as they walk through this unimaginable grief.”

“We must stand united against political violence in every form,” Chairman Wahl added.

“What happened to Charlie Kirk is more than an attack on one man—it is an attack on the very freedoms that define our nation. Free speech, peaceful dialogue, and the open exchange of ideas are the cornerstones of our Republic. When violence replaces debate, when intimidation replaces dialogue, we all lose. America must send a clear message that political violence will never be tolerated. We honor Charlie’s legacy by rededicating ourselves to civility, to courage, and to protecting the sacred right of every citizen to speak without fear.”

The party said it remains committed to honoring his legacy by defending freedom, protecting free speech, and ensuring that his vision for America’s youth continues to live on.

“Charlie Kirk was a true patriot who loved this country. I enjoyed going on his podcast, serving on boards together, and working side by side to advance the conservative movement,” U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) wrote on Wednesday afternoon.

“My heart breaks for Erika, his two kids, and the Kirk family. Their world – and ours – will never be the same. Please join me in praying for them.”

Catalogued statements prior to the announcement of Kirk’s passing: