Jake Paul issues immediate response to Charlie Kirk shooting

Charlie Kirk, 31, was shot dead at a political rally in Utah Valley University and Jake Paul took to social media to offer his response

Jake Paul has expressed his shock on social media following the shooting of activist Charlie Kirk.

Mr Kirk, a 31 year old father of two, was a close ally of Donald Trump and co-founder and CEO of the youth right-wing organisation Turning Point USA. He was tragically shot and killed at a Utah Valley University event on Wednesday, in what authorities are describing as a political assassination.

Footage shared on social media from the scene at Utah Valley University captured Mr Kirk speaking into a handheld microphone under a white tent adorned with the slogans “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong”. The video then captures the sound of a single gunshot, followed by gasps and screams from the shocked crowd before people begin to flee, reports All Out Fighting.

READ MORE: Anthony Joshua suffers world ranking blow as brutal decision madeREAD MORE: Oleksandr Usyk learns results of investigation into controversial video

Paul was quick to react to the shocking news. “Charlie Kirk got shot for telling the truth,” he posted. “That is literally it. What a mentally sick time we are living through We need god more than ever Praying for Charlie’s family and praying for these evil people to heal.”

Former President Donald Trump also expressed his sorrow and anger over the brutal assassination of Charlie Kirk in a video address to the nation. “This is a dark moment for America,” said Mr Trump.

“Charlie Kirk travelled the nation, joyfully engaging with everyone interested in good faith debate. His mission was to bring young people into the political process, which he did better than anybody ever.”

Wednesday evening’s gathering was promoted as the opening leg of Mr Kirk’s “The American Comeback Tour” and had sparked heated debate across the campus. An internet petition urging university officials to prevent Mr Kirk from speaking attracted almost 1,000 signatures.

The university released a statement last week referencing First Amendment protections and reaffirming its “commitment to free speech, intellectual inquiry, and constructive dialogue”. Paul is gearing up for his exhibition clash with Gervonta Davis in November, a contest which has generated significant debate.

Paul, who defeated boxing icon Mike Tyson on points last year, will take on lightweight world champion Davis in a fight which will not receive official approval.

Paul will carry four stone more than Davis and the regulations for the bout remain undisclosed, though Paul previously stated: “It would be an exhibition, 10 three-minute rounds. No restrictions, just the fact we couldn’t actually get it professionally sanctioned.” When questioned about the weight division for the encounter, the ‘Problem Child’ responded: “195.”