President Donald Trump announced plans to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously to conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot on Wednesday during an event at Utah Valley University.
Trump made the announcement while speaking at the Pentagon during a ceremony remembering the 9/11 attacks.
Kirk, founder of the conservative youth group Turning Point USA, was killed at the university event, and Trump confirmed his death later that day. “Charlie was a giant of his generation, a champion of liberty and an inspiration to millions and millions of people,” the former president said on Thursday.
“We miss him greatly, yet I have no doubt that Charlie’s voice and courage put into the hearts of countless people, especially young people, will live on.”
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States.
Trump said the date of the award ceremony would be announced soon, noting that it would likely attract a large crowd. He also shared that he would speak with Kirk’s family later Thursday. Kirk is survived by his wife Erika and two children.
Authorities continue their search for the suspect.
The FBI recovered what is believed to be the weapon used in the attack—a high-powered bolt-action rifle—near the site of the shooting, according to Salt Lake City FBI Special Agent Robert Bohls. Officials describe the suspect as likely college-aged and have released images of a person of interest.
Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason said investigators tracked the suspect’s movements through stairwells up to the roof of a building near the outdoor event before the shooting occurred.
Kirk was struck by a single bullet around 12:20 p.m. and later pronounced dead at a hospital. The suspect then jumped off the building and fled into a nearby neighborhood, prompting authorities to canvass the area, review surveillance footage, and interview witnesses.
Officials emphasized the attack was targeted.
“We will not stand for what happened yesterday. We are investing everything we have into this and we will catch this individual,” Mason said.
Investigators have also collected forensic evidence, including a footwear impression, palm print, and forearm imprints, to aid in identifying the shooter.
The FBI has urged the public to provide any information, photos, or video that could help locate the suspect.
