Business leaders react to shooting death of Charlie Kirk

Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk died after being shot at an event on Wednesday afternoon at Utah Valley University. He was 31 years old. 

Kirk’s death was confirmed by President Donald Trump.

“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. 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 campaigned for Trump heading into the 2024 election. 

Video posted from the event appeared to show Kirk being shot as he spoke to the crowd from under a white pop-up tent.

Turning Point USA is a nonprofit that empowers students to support and advocate for free markets and limited government.

CHARLIE KIRK DEAD: LIVE UPDATES

Business leaders and business groups reacted to the news. 

Foster’s Outriders

The advocacy group connected to deceased billionaire philanthropist Foster Friess, who was an early funder and supporter of Turning Point USA, posted a message from Lynn Friess.

“‘Erika, and the entire Kirk family are in our prayers. I still remember the day when Foster first encountered Charlie at 18, and told me about the wise young man who wanted to save America. Foster was excited to write a check to help start Turning Point. Foster knew then that Charlie would move the culture and change history… and he did! He’s gone to be with the Lord. We are devastated by this news.'”

Pershing Square CEO Bill Ackman

“No words,” Ackman wrote on X.

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy

“RIP Charlie Kirk,” Portnoy wrote on X. “It doesn’t matter what your opinion is of Charlie or his politics if you don’t view this as one of the darkest days in American history than you are part of the problem.”

Eric Trump

“Charlie Kirk was an incredible patriot — brave, tough as hell, and a dear friend to our entire family,” Trump wrote on X. “In his honor, all @Trump properties will fly their flags at half-staff. We will always celebrate his life, strive to make him proud, and pray that God watches over Erika and their precious kids.”

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent

“Rest in peace to my friend, Charlie Kirk. My heart is with his loved ones at this devastating time,” Bessent wrote on X. “This inexcusable violence belongs nowhere in a civilized society. Charlie was a brave man, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a great patriot. Please join me in praying for his family and our country.”

FOX News Digital’s Sarach Rumph-Whitten contributed to this report.