WASHINGTON —

Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist, was shot and killed while speaking at Utah Valley University on Wednesday afternoon, and, as of early Thursday morning, the FBI is actively searching for the suspect.

Kirk was kicking off his latest national college tour through his conservative youth organization, Turning Point USA , which attracts thousands of attendees.

During the event, Kirk was taking a question from an audience member when he was shot. Authorities rushed him to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

President Donald Trump ordered flags at the White House to be lowered to half-staff.

Trump described the incident as a "dark moment for America" and said, "Charlie inspired millions and tonight all who knew him and loved him are united in shock an

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