On September 10, 2025, the tragic killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University sent shockwaves through the nation. Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot during a speaking event, an act Utah Governor Spencer Cox labeled a “political assassination.” Among the outpouring of grief, former racecar driver Danica Patrick shared a poignant three-word reaction on her Instagram story: “I can’t believe it.” Her emotional response, paired with a post from Upward News announcing Kirk’s death, captured the disbelief and sorrow felt by many who admired the influential commentator.
Patrick, who transitioned from a celebrated career in IndyCar and NASCAR to a vocal supporter of conservative causes, had grown close to Kirk in recent years. Her journey into politics began at Turning Point USA’s 2023 AmericaFest, where she first met Kirk, a figure she initially knew little about. Their connection deepened as she appeared on The Charlie Kirk Show and spoke at subsequent events, including the 2024 AmericaFest. Patrick’s caption continued, “What is wrong with people? We have an epidemic of mental illness. Praying so much for his family.” Her words echoed the sentiments of a nation grappling with rising political violence, as Kirk’s death joined a string of attacks, including assassination attempts on President Donald Trump and an arson attack on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s home.
The shooting occurred during Kirk’s “American Comeback Tour,” where he was addressing a crowd of 3,000 under a gazebo. A single shot, fired from a nearby rooftop, struck Kirk in the neck, leading to his death despite efforts by his security team to rush him to a hospital. The FBI and Utah authorities are still searching for the shooter, with no suspect in custody as of late September 10. The tragedy prompted bipartisan condemnation, with figures like California Governor Gavin Newsom and former Vice President Kamala Harris denouncing political violence. President Trump, a close ally of Kirk, called it a “dark day for America,” blaming “radical left” rhetoric, though no motive has been confirmed.
Patrick’s reaction, shared with her 1.8 million Instagram followers, sparked a wave of tributes online. Fans and conservative figures alike amplified her message, with hashtags like #JusticeForCharlie trending on X. Her call for prayers and reflection on mental health resonated, highlighting the personal toll of such a loss. Kirk, survived by his wife Erika and two young children, was remembered as a fierce debater and youth mobilizer. Patrick’s heartfelt words, alongside those from celebrities like Chris Pratt and Candace Cameron Bure, underscored the profound impact of Kirk’s life and the urgent need to address the escalating tide of political violence in America.
