**Charlie Kirk Fatally Shot During Utah University Tour; Expert Suggests Influence Was a Target**
Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), was fatally shot on September 10 during “The American Comeback Tour” at Utah Valley University. Career prosecutor and author Dr. Wendy Patrick suggests that Kirk may have been targeted not merely for his words, but because of the wide reach of his message.
“People were listening to the content of what Charlie Kirk had to say,” Patrick noted. She believes that the fear of influence may be a significant driver of political violence.
Kirk’s impact extended far beyond the United States. Vigils were held in cities worldwide, including London, Sydney, and Berlin, following his assassination.
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### Massive Memorial Draws Tens of Thousands
Turning Point USA reported that Kirk’s memorial service at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, on September 21 drew an estimated 90,000 to 100,000 attendees.
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### College Students Curiously Engaged With Kirk’s Message
Patrick explained that the interest in Kirk went beyond partisan lines. “They were curious in knowing what made someone like Charlie Kirk tick,” she said. “Could it be that he was on to something that maybe was worthy of a little bit more exploration on their part?”
She highlighted that while Kirk’s message wasn’t new, his approach was distinctive. Unlike typical political debates, Kirk aimed to engage in gracious conversations with those who opposed his views.
“What was new is the boldness, gentleness, and graciousness with which Charlie Kirk was able to explain that,” Patrick added.
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### Tributes from Across the Political Spectrum
Commentators across political lines have acknowledged Kirk’s influence. Opinion writer Ezra Klein commented, “When the left thought its hold on the hearts and minds of college students was nearly absolute, Kirk showed up again and again to break it.”
Research from the Network Contagion Research Institute indicates a growing justification for lethal violence among left-aligned younger individuals, a troubling trend.
Months before his assassination, Kirk posted on X, “Assassination culture is spreading on the left.”
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### A Message That Reached Both Minds and Hearts
For Dr. Patrick, Kirk was more than a speaker — he was someone whose message resonated deeply. “Kirk didn’t just speak, people listened to a message that reached both minds and hearts,” she said.
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Vigils and memorials continue across universities and cities nationwide, honoring the conservative activist dubbed by youth leaders as “The Godfather of Campus Conservatism.”
https://www.foxnews.com/us/people-were-listening-prosecutor-says-charlie-kirk-targeted-his-influence
