Vigil Honors Charlie Kirk in Hayesville

Photo courtesy of Karen Neyrey Trout

HAYESVILLE, N.C. — Dozens of Clay County residents gathered on the historic square in downtown Hayesville on Friday night, Sept. 12, for a candlelight vigil to honor Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist assassinated two days earlier.

Attendees participated in the grassroots vigil, held under a clear autumn sky, to commemorate Kirk’s legacy as a champion of conservative values and free speech. The event featured prayers and reflections on Kirk’s influence, particularly among younger audiences.

Kirk, 31, founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot in the neck on Sept. 10, 2025, while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Authorities reported that the gunman fired from a rooftop and fled, leaving the weapon behind. The attack, witnessed by thousands of students and attendees, prompted a nationwide manhunt and intensified discussions about political violence and event security.

On Friday, authorities arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson of Utah in connection with the shooting after a 33-hour search. Robinson, who reportedly admitted to a relative that he shot Kirk, faces charges including aggravated murder and is being held without bail. The FBI and state investigators are still examining the motive, amid speculation from conservative leaders that the killing reflects deepening political divides.

Kirk’s death has sparked polarized reactions online, with some condemning the act as extremism and others expressing support for the assailant. The incident has also led to investigations into controversial social media comments made by first responders and others, resulting in several firings nationwide.

Hayesville has no direct connection to Kirk, but his national prominence as a conservative voice resonated in the community.