Pritzker: ‘Attack on Charlie Kirk is horrifying’; Illinois officials react to Kirk’s death

Illinois officials were quick to react to the attack on Charlie Kirk, a conservative influencer and Illinois native, who died after being shot in the neck at an event in Utah on Wednesday.

Kirk was killed at an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.

More: Charlie Kirk, Illinois native and conservative influencer, dies after Utah shooting

"The attack on Charlie Kirk is horrifying," Gov. JB Prtizker posted on Facebook. "Political violence has no place in this country and should never become the norm. I’m sending my sympathies to his family and friends at this time."

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin expressed similar sentiment.

"Political violence is wrong—no matter the ideology it stems from," he posted on Facebook. It has zero place in our country. My thoughts are with Charlie Kirk and his family."

The Illinois GOP released a statement which is credited to Chair Kathy Salvi. She said the following:

"Our hearts are broken over the tragic death of Charlie Kirk. Charlie’s work for Republicans in Illinois and across the country was invaluable. Charlie gave an important and unique voice to young people across the country and engaged in thoughtful, open, and honest dialogue that our country desperately needs.  Political violence has no place in this country and we continue to pray for Charlie’s family."

Tom Ackerman covers breaking news and trending news along with general news for the Springfield State Journal-Register. He can be reached at tackerman@gannett.com.