Charlie Kirk Shot In The Neck During Tour, Sparking Conversations

On Sept. 10, while hosting an event for Turning Point USA at the University of Utah, Charles James Kirk was shot by a long range rifle. Despite getting immediate medical assistance, Kirk died from his injuries that evening at the Timpanogos Regional Hospital.   

Kirk was well known for his extreme viewpoints about guns and other issues plaguing the country. The 31-year-old activist was on his tour, in front of a large crowd while addressing the students at the university when a bullet from the rifle struck him in the neck. News of his death spread around the nation rapidly and led to outrage over the shooting as well as grief over his death. The students at the University of Utah held a candlelight memorial for him to show support towards his family.

The authorities worked tirelessly to find the shooter who was identified as 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson, who allegedly shot at the activist. He has been charged for crimes including aggravated murder, weapon violation, and obstruction of justice. As the investigation continues, people have already weapon violation, and obstruction of justice. As the investigation continues, people have already

On Sept. 15, the comedian Jimmy Kimmel in his show on the ABC News gibed, “The MAGA Gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.” 

This remark would lead to further controversies online. Two days later, on Sept. 17, ABC channel stated that they would “indefinitely” suspend Kimmel for his comment and take his show off the air.   After “thoughtful conversations with Jimmy” ABC announced that Kimmel’s show would be reinstated to their network. 

Whether it be here or in a high profile case in school or in public spaces, gun violation and usage continue to be the cause of tragedies that are leading to questioning the safety of the public. 

Taraknath LNU (10) commented “It is bad that in America, anyone can get a gun and use it at any time and place which is terrible due to safety reasons, and leads to fear in society.”

Vignesh Kalyanasundaram (11) shared similar sentiments, saying, “Guns should not be given to the public. Even though it is a right given to us, [it should] not be for violence and they should be removed, while keeping the guns to authorities. Charlie’s Kirk’s death should not be a political argument over his death, as at the end of the day it is still a person’s death with families involved.”