On Sept. 10, the 31-year-old Turning Point USA founder was fatally shot in the neck while speaking to 3,000 at Utah Valley University. The rooftop gunman’s shot severed arteries, leaving Kirk unconscious almost instantly.

Friends and security rushed him to the hospital, with mentor Frank Turek performing CPR during the frantic ride. But the wound was unsurvivable.

“” Turek said, finding solace in the belief Kirk did not suffer.

Supporters note the tragic symbolism: Kirk was killed while addressing gun violence. Tributes, especially from his wife Erika, stress that his movement will continue. His final ride, car door open as rescuers fought for his life, has become a lasting image of devotion and loss.