BREAKING: Trump, Vance call for prayers after Charlie Kirk shot at Utah Valley University

"May he be received into the merciful arms of our loving Savior, who suffered and died for Charlie.

"We ask that everyone keep his family and loved ones in your prayers. We ask that you please respect their privacy and dignity at this time."

President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance asked for prayers to Charlie Kirk after the conservative activist was shot Wednesday during an event at Utah Valley University. Kirk is currently in hospital.

Witnesses said a single shot rang out, appearing to strike Kirk in the neck area. He was immediately taken for medical treatment.

President Donald Trump reacted on Truth Social, writing: “We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!”

Vice President JD Vance also posted, urging prayers: “Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father.”

"Please join me in prayer for a true patriot, Charlie Kirk, and his family," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said.

California Governor Gavin Newsom, who hosted Kirk on his podcast, said "the attack on Charlie Kirk is disgusting, vile, and reprehensible. In the United States of America, we must reject political violence in every form."

Former President Obama posted saying, "We don’t yet know what motivated the person who shot and killed Charlie Kirk, but this kind of despicable violence has no place in our democracy. Michelle and I will be praying for Charlie’s family tonight, especially his wife Erika and their two young children."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted, "Charlie Kirk was murdered for speaking truth and defending freedom. A lion-hearted friend of Israel, he fought the lies and stood tall for Judeo-Christian civilization. I spoke to him only two weeks ago and invited him to Israel. Sadly, that visit will not take place. We lost an incredible human being. His boundless pride in America and his valiant belief in free speech will leave a lasting impact. Rest in peace, Charlie Kirk."

"I'm horrified by the shooting of Charlie Kirk at a college event in Utah. Political violence has no place in our country," said New York City Democratic Nominee Zohran Mamdani.

"We must all strongly denounce the shooting of Charlie Kirk. Political violence is NEVER justified. The attacker must be brought to justice. And free speech must be upheld. Pray for Mr. Kirk and his family," said Canada's Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.