WASHINGTON, D.C. — Members of West Virginia’s congressional delegation and Gov. Patrick Morrisey have all responded on social media to the shooting death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on the campus of Utah Valley University Wednesday.
Kirk, 31, was assassinated just a few minutes after he began an outdoor rally before approximately 3,000 students and others. Police said the shot came from the roof of a campus building. It was a targeted killing, police said.
Kirk suffered a gunshot wound to the neck. He died a short time later.
As of early Thursday morning, there have no arrests.
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito originally posted on X Wednesday afternoon, “An absolutely horrific moment.”
After the announcement of Kirk’s death Capito said “My heart aches for his wife and young children. Praying for his whole family in the wake of this tragedy.”
My heart aches for his wife and young children.
Praying for his whole family in the wake of this tragedy. https://t.co/2SU7KW5MfJ
— Shelley Moore Capito (@SenCapito) September 10, 2025
Senator Jim Justice also reacted.
“Cathy and I are heartbroken over this terrible news. We’re praying hard for Charlie’s young family and his loved ones,” the post on X said. “We ask the Good Lord to wrap his arms around them and carry them through this difficult time.”
First District Congresswoman Carol Miller also requested prayer.
“Please pray for Charlie Kirk and his family following this senseless act of violence. Violence is never the answer to political disagreement. Criminals that perpetrate such heinous acts should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” Miller’s X post said.
Second District Congressman Riley responded similarly.
“Please join Mina and me in praying hard for Charlie Kirk. We need all the prayers.”
Gov. Patrick Morrisey posted the following reaction on X:
“My prayers are with Charlie Kirk and his young family for healing and strength following this horrific incident.”
Morrisey talked about the shooting during a Wednesday night appearance in Wheeling.
Kirk leaves behind a wife and two young children.