Context:

Students and community members have gathered to mourn the death of Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, who was shot and killed while speaking at Utah Valley University. The Texas Tech University students held a vigil near the student union building to honor Kirk's memory and support his family. The gunman responsible for the shooting remains at large, according to the FBI, and the incident has sparked widespread grief and memorial events. In Orem, Utah, close to where the shooting occurred, locals assembled to pray, give speeches, and pay respects to Kirk. Texas A&M University is planning another large vigil to commemorate the influential activist and influencer's contributions and legacy.

Dive Deeper:

• Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was tragically murdered while addressing a crowd at Utah Valley University, having been shot in the neck by an unidentified gunman, who is still at large according to the FBI.

• Students at Texas Tech University organized a vigil near the campus's free speech area to honor Kirk and show solidarity with his family, reflecting the deep impact of his work on the student community.

• In Orem, Utah, a gathering was held at the City Center Park, where participants kneeled, delivered speeches, and prayed, paying tribute to Kirk, who had a significant influence as a youth activist and influencer.

• The impact of Kirk's death has been felt widely, with Texas A&M University's chapter of Turning Point USA planning another significant vigil, indicating the widespread respect and admiration for Kirk's work and ideals.

• Kirk is survived by his wife Erika and their two young children, and the events commemorating his life have seen a collective outpouring of grief and remembrance from those he inspired.

• The memorials, including those at Texas Tech and in Orem, Utah, underscore the legacy Kirk leaves behind, as both an influential political figure and a person who deeply touched many lives.

• The vigils not only serve as a tribute to Kirk's life and work but also as a poignant reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding public safety and the unresolved investigation into the shooting.