Huntsville, Alabama, September 14, 2025
News Summary
Supporters of Charlie Kirk, the conservative influencer tragically shot during a campus event, are gathering nationwide to mourn his loss. Candlelight vigils, including one at Big Spring Park in Huntsville, aim to provide a space for collective grieving and remembrance. President Trump has announced plans to attend Kirk’s funeral and has expressed condolences to Kirk’s family. The shooting has sparked bipartisan condemnation of political violence, highlighting the need for unity and peace during this difficult time.
Huntsville, Alabama – Following the tragic shooting death of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, supporters across the nation are gathering to mourn his loss. Candlelight vigils have been held in multiple locations, with a significant remembrance taking place on Friday night at Big Spring Park in Huntsville.
Dozens of attendees congregated at the vigil, bringing flowers and candles to honor the 31-year-old who was shot in the neck while speaking at a campus event at Utah Valley University earlier that week. The event in Huntsville served as a space for sharing stories, prayers, and collective grieving. Vigil organizer Julia Bahran highlighted the need for a supportive environment, urging participants to avoid responses of violence or hatred.
Meanwhile, a separate candlelight vigil was held on Wednesday night at the University of Alabama, where students gathered to pray and remember Kirk. The university vigil began at 7:30 p.m. and provided students with an opportunity for communal mourning.
President Donald Trump announced his intention to attend Kirk’s funeral, the details of which have yet to be released. Trump honored Kirk on his Truth Social account, referring to him as “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk.” He acknowledged Kirk’s profound understanding of youth issues in America and offered condolences to Kirk’s wife, Erika, and his family.
Turning Point USA, the organization founded by Kirk, promotes conservative policies among young people and has a strong presence on college campuses nationwide. Kirk was especially known for his vocal conservative viewpoints throughout the 2010s, actively participating in numerous debates. He previously visited the University of Alabama in November 2021, where he discussed critical race theory and COVID mandates during his “Exposing Critical Racism Tour,” which attracted over 200 attendees and drew protests.
The shooting has prompted bipartisan condemnation, with lawmakers from both sides of the aisle condemning political violence. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell emphasized that political violence has no place in the United States and has joined in prayer for Kirk and his family. Following Kirk’s passing, President Trump ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in his honor, with Alabama Governor Kay Ivey issuing a similar directive for flags to be lowered at the state capitol and across Alabama until sunset on Sunday.
As mourners gather nationwide, the impact of Kirk’s legacy and the call for peace resonate strongly among his supporters and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Charlie Kirk?
What happened to Charlie Kirk?
What are the reactions following his death?
Where and when are the vigils being held?
Key Features of the Vigil and Charlie Kirk’s Death
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location of Vigils | Huntsville, Alabama and University of Alabama |
| Date of Shooting | Wednesday, before the vigils |
| Kirk’s Age | 31 |
| Organizers of Vigils | Julia Bahran and students at the University of Alabama |
| Political Reactions | Bipartisan condemnation of violence, flags ordered at half-staff |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Conservative Activist at University
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Conservative Activist at Utah University
Additional Resources
- WAFF: UAH Organization Holds Prayer Vigil Following Charlie Kirk’s Death
- AL.com: Alabama Students Light Candles for Charlie Kirk
- Houston Chronicle: Vigil for Charlie Kirk
- WHNT: UAH Students Hold Vigil for Charlie Kirk
- WKRG: Charlie Kirk Candlelight Vigil Set in Mobile
- Wikipedia: Charlie Kirk
- Google Search: Charlie Kirk
- Google Scholar: Charlie Kirk
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlie Kirk
- Google News: Charlie Kirk
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
