Conservative influencer Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Sept. 10.
Kirk, 31, was attacked during a question-and-answer session with students.
The university had said a suspect was taken into custody as of 2:15 p.m. However, Scott Trotter, a university spokesman, told the New York Times police have determined the person who was taken into custody was not the shooter. Campus police declined to comment when reached by USA TODAY.
At 3:40 p.m., President Donald Trump issued a statement on Truth Social announcing Kirk’s death.
“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead,” he wrote. “No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie.”
Kirk, who started Turning Point USA at 18, was a prominent voice in conservative politics and an ally to Trump.
Now, members of the Nashville music community are speaking out in grief following the news of Kirk’s death.
Parker McCollum
“I don’t even know what to say anymore. Charlie was one of the greatest young patriots this country has ever seen,” country singer Parker McCollum wrote on Instagram. “Thank you for standing up for what so many of us believe so strongly. May God have mercy on your soul and watch over your precious family.”
Texas born country performer Parker McCollum at Red Light Management Monday, May 12, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. McCollum’s fifth studio album “Parker McCollum” will be released June 27, 2025.
Jason Aldean
On his Instagram story, Jason Aldean shared Taste of Country’s post announcing Kirk’s death.
“I don’t have the words for this right now,” wrote the country singer. “Sad, infuriated, and mostly heartbroken for his wife and kids.”
Jason Aldean performs at the CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, June 6, 2025.
Lee Greenwood
“Charlie Kirk was one of the best — passionate, wise, and fair. He spoke truth, welcomed open dialogue, and sought God’s wisdom daily,” Lee Greenwood wrote in a post on Instagram.
“It’s heartbreaking to think our world has come to this. Every time I saw him, I felt such pride in his vision and strength,” the “God Bless the USA” singer continued. “Kim and I are lifting up his precious wife, Erika, and their family in prayer. Rest in peace, young Charlie Kirk. May God help us all.”
Lee Greenwood sings God Bless the USA during the Arnold Classic on March 1, 2025, at the Columbus Convention Center.
Travis Tritt
“No matter your political views wrong is wrong and this is absolutely devastating!” Travis Tritt wrote on his Instagram story.
“Praying for his family!! In this terrible time,” the “I’m Gonna Be Somebody” singer said. “Rest in peace Charlie!”
Travis Tritt performs with Jason Aldean at the CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, June 6, 2025.
Contributing: Angele Latham
Audrey Gibbs is a music journalist at The Tennessean. You can reach her at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Charlie Kirk shooting: Nashville musicians mourn conservative
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