Trump Jr. Says He First Informed His Father of Charlie Kirk’s Death

Lead Donald Trump Jr. announced on X Friday afternoon that he was the first to relay news of Charlie Kirk’s fatal shooting to President Trump, underscoring his close involvement in the unfolding crisis in Utah.

Nut Graf Trump Jr.’s public declaration highlights both his personal connection to the slain conservative commentator and his role as a conduit of urgent information to the White House. The announcement comes amid nationwide attention on law enforcement’s rapid investigation into the assassination.

What Happened

At 3:46 p.m. ET, Trump Jr. posted on X: “I was the first to tell my father about Charlie’s horrific death” following reports that the suspected gunman had been taken into custody.
Charlie Kirk, 31, was fatally shot Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem. Officials confirmed Friday morning that a family member identified the suspect, who was then arrested by a U.S. marshal.
President Trump told Fox & Friends he had “high degree of certainty” the shooter was in custody based on information received minutes before going on air.

Why It Matters This sequence of events underscores the intimate network of communications surrounding high-profile political figures and swift law enforcement coordination. Trump Jr.’s post also cements his prominence within his father’s inner circle and his influence on messaging at the highest level.

Details of the Investigation Law enforcement sources report:

Surveillance footage showed the suspect arriving on campus shortly before the attack.
A relative of the suspect notified authorities, leading to a pre-dawn arrest Friday in Washington County, Utah.
FBI Director Cash Patel and Governor Spencer Cox held a press conference detailing the 33-hour investigation that involved over 11,000 tips from the public.

Reactions and Next Steps

President Trump plans to posthumously honor Kirk with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, reflecting Kirk’s significance to the MAGA movement.
Trump Jr.’s announcement drew praise from conservative commentators, who lauded his swift action in communicating critical developments.
Local and federal agencies continue forensic analysis and interviews as they build a full picture of the motive and any potential accomplices.