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The assassination of conservative firebrand Charlie Kirk has ignited an online storm, with his supporters vowing to expose and punish critics who mocked or dismissed his death.
Kirk, 31, a prominent ally of President Donald Trump, was fatally shot Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University.
The suspected gunman, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, was arrested after a two-day manhunt. Investigators say the rifle used in the killing carried engravings of anti-fascist slogans, intensifying claims on the right that the attack was politically motivated.
While tributes poured in from across the political divide, backlash was swift against those who appeared to celebrate the murder.
In Tennessee, Laura Sosh-Lightsy, an assistant dean at Middle Tennessee State University, posted on Facebook: “Hate begets hate. ZERO sympathy.”
Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn denounced the remark, and hours later, the university announced that an employee had been dismissed for a “callous” comment about Kirk’s death.
Conservative activists have since organized digital campaigns to track down others who mocked Kirk online.
Influencer Joey Mannarino urged his followers to identify such people and pressure their employers. Targets have included teachers, firefighters, and even military personnel, some of whom have faced disciplinary actions or job losses.
President Trump has led tributes to Kirk, calling him a “giant of his generation” and a “martyr for truth.”
He ordered flags nationwide lowered to half-staff and arranged for Kirk’s body to be flown from Utah to Phoenix aboard Air Force Two, escorted by Vice President JD Vance.
Senior officials in Trump’s administration have also weighed in. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed military commanders to identify service members who mocked or downplayed Kirk’s death.
Meanwhile, Under Secretary of State Christopher Landau warned that foreigners who glorify the killing could face travel bans, stating: “Those who praise political violence are not welcome on American soil.”
Far-right commentator Laura Loomer added fuel to the fire by exposing a FEMA employee who criticized the flag-lowering order. FEMA confirmed the staffer has been placed on leave, describing the remarks as “unacceptable.”
Turning Point USA, the organization Kirk founded, announced that a memorial service will take place September 21 in suburban Phoenix.
The chosen venue, a stadium with a seating capacity of more than 63,000, signals the massive turnout expected for a man both idolized and loathed, whose death has further polarized an already divided America.
Supporters of slain activist Charlie Kirk move to silence critics
