CHARLOTTE — The FBI released photos Thursday of a person of interest in the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, whose death has drawn condemnation from Carolinas leaders and sparked reflection from UNC Charlotte students in the group he founded.
Kirk was known for establishing Turning Point USA, which is a political nonprofit that works at high schools and colleges.
UNC Charlotte has an active chapter and Channel 9’s Dave Faherty spoke with the chapter’s president, Matthew Kingsley.
“One thing Charlie and I related to is, very specifically, was work ethic. His work ethic was very relatable and very strong,” Kingsley said.
He got multiple messages on his phone about the violence at Utah Valley University.
“Why are we shooting people?” Kingsley said. “Why are we stabbing people on the light rail here in Charlotte? What is the reason for this?”
It’s the same question other members of the UNC Charlotte chapter have asked themselves over the last 24-hours, including student Katelyn Pipkin.
“Really, just a big inspiration,” Pipkin said. “Being a Christian in today’s society is really difficult and being able to see someone who is unapologetically themselves.”
The students at UNC Charlotte said the most difficult part of the shooting are the comments across social media about the man they admired.
“Seeing how disgusting people are being after,” said student Rachel Rubin. “Whether you agreed with him or not, you don’t parade on someone’s murder.”
The organization said since the shooting, dozens of students have reached out about joining Turning Point on the campus of UNC Charlotte.
Kirk’s casket will be flown to his home state of Arizona on Air Force 2.
Lawmakers for the Carolinas, including Sen. Thom Tillis and North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein are condemning the political violence.
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