Washington, DC [US], September 11 (ANI): US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Thursday paid tribute to slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a 9/11 commemoration ceremony at the Pentagon, saying that like the victims of the terror attacks, he 'will never be forgotten.'

'On this day 24 years ago, we suffered. In the years since, we have endured. Our service and sacrifice have forged our character, and today, we stand in hope for the future of our great nation,' Hegseth said, addressing the gathering in the Pentagon courtyard alongside President Trump.

Hegseth underscored the role of young Americans in shaping the nation's future. 'The young soldiers who take the oath give me hope. The young cops who wear the badge give me hope. The young firefighters who answer the call give me hope. The young agents who patrol our border give me hope. The life, example, and even death of Christ-follower and American patriot, Charlie Kirk give me hope.'

Drawing a parallel between Kirk and the victims of September 11, he concluded, 'Like those on 9/11, you will never be forgotten.'

Kirk, whose death Hegseth described as a loss that gave him hope and inspiration, was a right-wing political commentator and conservative activist. He was shot in the neck on Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University, The New York Times reported.

According to a Utah Valley University spokesperson, Kirk was approximately 20 minutes into his presentation when gunshots were heard from a nearby building.

The university informed students that 'a single shot was fired on campus toward a visiting speaker,' and a suspect has been taken into custody.

A spokesperson confirmed that Kirk was the only person shot during the event. Video footage from the scene showed students fleeing after hearing gunshots.

In one clip, Kirk appeared to fall back as blood came from his neck. He was sitting under a tent with the slogan 'The American Comeback' when the incident happened, as per The New York Times.

According to The New York Times, a spokeswoman for the FBI office in Utah said the office is aware of the reported shooting and agents are responding to the scene.

In a post on X, FBI Director Kash Patel said, 'We are closely monitoring reports of the tragic shooting involving Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Our thoughts are with Charlie, his loved ones, and everyone affected. Agents will be on the scene quickly and the FBI stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation.'

As per The New York Times, at least three videos posted on social media on Wednesday show Charlie Kirk being struck by apparent gunfire while giving a speech at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.

Gov. Spencer Cox of Utah said on social media that he is being briefed by law enforcement 'following the violence directed at Charlie Kirk during his visit to Utah today.'

He wrote on X, 'I am being briefed by law enforcement following the violence directed at Charlie Kirk during his visit to Utah Valley University today. We will continue to share updates. Those responsible will be held fully accountable. Violence has no place in our public life.'

Senator Lindsey Graham, Republican of South Carolina, called the apparent shooting of Charlie Kirk a 'sick and despicable attack' in a post on social media. Graham and several other Republican senators, including Ted Cruz of Texas and Katie Britt of Alabama, said that they are praying for Kirk. (ANI)