COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Charlie Kirk was last on the campus of Texas A&M in April, hosting one of his signature debate events as part of his Turning Point USA organization.
On Thursday night, hundreds poured out for a candlelight vigil in his memory.
The 31-year-old conservative political activist was shot and killed while hosting a very similar event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. His death is being called a political assassination by investigators.
In his memory, the Texas A&M chapter of Turning Point USA organized a vigil to remember their founder.
Hundreds of people packed into Rudder Plaza, including students and community members from both sides of the political aisle.
Speakers included student representatives from Turning Point USA, college Republicans and college Democrats. Together, they came together to support one another and denounce the latest polarizing incident of political violence.
“Five months ago, I was here debating Charlie Kirk himself, and now I’m here speaking at a vigil for him,“ said one of the speakers. ”I was truly blessed to have the opportunity to debate such a man. I bring this up to highlight that this is something that should affect everyone, not just one political party. Whether you support Charlie Kirk or not, at the end of the day he leaves behind a family and friends that we send our prayers to.”
The event was capped with prayer and musical praise.