Charlie Kirk sent a heartbreaking final text to a friend just hours before he was assassinated.
The 31-year-old was addressing students at Utah Valley University (UVU) when a single gunshot struck him in the neck during a Q&A session.
The attack, which occurred as Kirk discussed gun violence, was captured on camera, showing him collapsing in his chair with blood pouring from the wound.
Despite being rushed to the hospital, the wound proved fatal, and Kirk was later confirmed dead.
Charlie Kirk’s Final Text Message
Just hours before his tragic death, Charlie Kirk sent a final text message to Republican Senator Mike Lee of Utah.
The text, shared by Lee on social media, read: “Thank you so much. Just landed. Event I think is going to be a win.”
Kirk leaves behind his wife, Erika Lane, 36, and their two children.
The family was present at the event, witnessing the shooting as security rushed in to try and save Kirk’s life.
The couple married in 2021 after meeting in 2018.
Trump Pays Tribute
President Donald Trump, a close ally of Kirk’s, was among those who publicly mourned his passing.
In a heartfelt tribute, Trump wrote, "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!"
The Suspect: Tyler Robinson
The suspect in the shooting, Tyler Robinson, has been identified and taken into custody.
The 22-year-old was arrested nearly two days after the assassination, with President Trump confirming the news on Fox News.
Trump stated: “I think, with a high degree of certainty, we have him.” According to reports, Robinson’s father played a key role in his capture, driving him to a police station where he was handed over to authorities.
The FBI had initially detained two individuals after the shooting, but both were released after questioning.
Further investigation led to Robinson’s identification, and video footage confirmed he was seen fleeing the scene after the attack. A reward of $100,000 was offered for information that would lead to his capture.
Tyler Robinson's Alleged Motive and Troubling Background
Tyler Robinson's motive remains unknown, but it appears to be rooted in his political views.
Authorities found messages from Robinson on Discord, where he had expressed disdain for Kirk and his political stance.
He allegedly referred to Kirk’s event as "spreading hate." Robinson, who had become more politically active in recent years, reportedly spoke about retrieving a rifle, which was later linked to the crime.
Inscriptions on the rifle casings found at the scene included phrases like "Hey Fascist! Catch!" and "Bella Ciao," as well as a phrase reading: "If you read this, you are gay, lmao."
The investigation remains ongoing.