Postponement of Ben Shapiro’s Book Signing Event Following Tragic Shooting
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, announced on Wednesday the postponement of a planned book signing event featuring conservative commentator Ben Shapiro. This decision came in the wake of tragic news regarding fellow conservative figure Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot earlier that day at an event held at Utah Valley University (UVU).
In a statement, the library expressed its condolences, stating, “The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute is saddened to hear of events that took place today at Utah Valley University. Our prayers are with Charlie Kirk and his family. As a mark of respect, we are canceling our program and book signing with Ben Shapiro this evening. A new date will be announced shortly.“
Details Surrounding the Shooting
Charlie Kirk, who was 31 at the time of his death, suffered a gunshot wound to the neck during the event. The announcement of his death was made by former President Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform, where he memorialized Kirk, saying, “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie.” Trump went on to express his sympathies to Kirk’s family, particularly his wife, Erika.
Following the shooting, law enforcement began their search for a suspect on the UVU campus. Authorities initially detained an individual in connection with the incident but later released him from custody. As of early afternoon on Wednesday, no further information about the suspected shooter had been made public.
Ben Shapiro’s Reaction
Ben Shapiro was scheduled to promote his book, “Lions and Scavengers: The True Story of America (and Her Critics)”, during the now-cancelled event. In a heartfelt post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Shapiro expressed his sorrow over Kirk’s death, stating, “Like all of you, I am utterly stunned and heartbroken and sick to my soul today. It is unimaginable to write these words. I weep for Charlie’s family, and I weep for my country today. Most of all, I weep for Charlie.“
Tributes and Remembrance
Kirk was widely recognized for founding Turning Point USA, an organization aimed at promoting conservative values among the youth of America. His impact on the conservative landscape garnered him significant respect and admiration from various political circles. The outpouring of grief over Kirk’s tragic death highlights his influence and the gap his absence leaves in conservative discourse.
Federal Response
The White House also reacted to the tragedy, with President Trump ordering that all American flags on federal property be flown at half-staff until 6 p.m. on Sunday as a mark of respect for Kirk.
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| September 10, 2025 | Shooting Incident | Utah Valley University |
| September 10, 2025 | Postponement of Book Signing | Ronald Reagan Presidential Library |
The decision to postpone the book signing underscores the gravity of the events, reflecting the somber mood permeating the conservative community in light of Kirk’s untimely passing.
