On Wednesday, Sept. 10, political activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University. Kirk was shot in the neck while debating college students on his tour hosted by his nonprofit organization, Turning Point USA.
Shortly after Kirk’s death, a search for a suspect began. On Sept. 12, Tyler Robinson was brought to Utah County after turning himself in to the police. Robinson was allegedly convinced to do so by both of his parents after they recognized their son and the rifle he was gifted in the news, according to CNN. Robinson was later charged with the death penalty.
Kirk was a well-respected individual in American politics. Many politicians, including President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, spoke out about Kirk in the days that followed the shooting.
As a result of the death of this very public figure, the nation has expressed mixed emotions on the issue. Recently, Fox News reported that Jimmy Kimmel, the host of the late-night show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, was pulled off the air after making an insensitive comment about Kirk. There are many ongoing controversies about whether the pulling of Kimmel’s show was deserved or if it was an attack on freedom of speech. After careful consideration by many well-known TV producers, on the night of September 24th, Jimmy Kimmel was back on air.
Kirk leaves behind two daughters, his wife Erika and an impactful legacy for people around the world. Many gathered together to celebrate his life and accomplishments at a memorial service held on Sept. 25. Erika is working hard to keep her husband’s passion alive.
