Danica Patrick said the United States could be headed for civil war after conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at a rally at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
Kirk, 31, was struck by a single bullet while seated inside a tented gazebo at the public university in Orem and collapsed immediately. He was rushed to a hospital, where he died. He leaves behind his wife, Erika Frantzve, and two young children, a three-year-old daughter and a 16-month-old son.
Video circulating after the shooting shows a shadowy figure running across the roof of the Losee Center, which officials said is about 200 feet from where Kirk was speaking. Utah Valley University and local law enforcement said an elderly man was initially taken into custody and later released. FBI Director Kash Patel said the person detained was released as the agency continues a major manhunt.
Patrick, who has become more politically active in recent years and aligned herself with former President Donald Trump, posted a series of Instagram comments after news of Kirk’s death. Her posts included an expletive reaction, expressions of anger and sorrow, and a statement blaming what she called "an epidemic of mental illness." She added, "I am worried about anarchy and civil war... I don't feel settled. I am sad. And angry."
Patrick shared video clips of Kirk and wrote that his voice had been "for his word to be heard and considered as a better way to live," adding that his killing was "frightening." She also wrote that she was praying for his family and those who loved him.
Authorities said the shot that killed Kirk was fired from the rooftop of the Losee Center. Spectators at the event were heard screaming in video and audio that have circulated online, and those closest to Kirk rushed to his aid after he was struck in the neck.
President Donald Trump posted a tribute on his social media platform, saying Kirk "was loved and admired by ALL, especially me," and offering sympathies to Kirk’s family.
Local and federal investigators are continuing their work. The FBI and local law enforcement have appealed for tips and information from anyone who may have video or other evidence of the shooting. Officials have not publicly identified a suspect or offered a motive.
Kirk was a prominent and polarizing figure within conservative political circles. The killing has intensified scrutiny of political rallies and the security surrounding public appearances by high-profile commentators and activists, as well as renewed public discussion about political violence and public safety.
University officials and law enforcement said the investigation remains active. They urged members of the campus community and the public to follow official updates from authorities and to provide any information that could assist the ongoing effort to identify and apprehend the person or persons responsible for the shooting.