News Summary A vigil was held at the University of South Florida to honor conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was tragically shot and killed while speaking at Utah Valley University. The event drew thousands of attendees, surpassing expectations and highlighting Kirk’s impact on conservative activism among students. Organized by Turning Point USA and the USF College Republicans, the vigil featured speakers, prayers, and a tribute to Kirk’s legacy in promoting Christian and conservative values. The event coincided with other memorials across Florida, underscoring the community’s mourning and support. Tampa, Florida – A vigil was held at the University of South Florida’s (USF) Marshall Student Center Ballroom to mourn the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The event took place on the evening of Monday following Kirk’s tragic shooting death at Utah Valley University while he was speaking. The vigil was organized by Turning Point USA at USF, the USF College Republicans, and the Network of Enlightened Women. Kirk was shot and killed last Wednesday, according to reports. The vigil was announced on Saturday and was open to community members as well as the public. Approximately 934 USF students registered for the vigil through the BullsConnect platform. Michael Fusella, president of USF College Republicans, reported a total attendance of between 2,500 and 3,000 people, far exceeding the estimated numbers. Fusella indicated that Kirk inspired many college students, including himself, to engage in conservative activism. Kirk was 31 years old and served as the executive director of Turning Point USA, an organization he co-founded in 2012. He was a close ally of the Trump administration and advocated for Christian and conservative values, traveling to college campuses nationwide to facilitate debates on controversial topics. He had previously visited USF in February as part of his “American Comeback Tour.” Turning Point USA operates over 900 chapters on college campuses, promoting conservative politics across the nation. The vigil, which drew more attendees than anticipated, required additional security measures. Roughly 25 University Police and Tampa police officers were present at the event. The vigil’s start was delayed by an hour due to high attendance and security checks, which included metal detectors and bag checks. The line for entry stretched more than half a mile, prompting the need for an overflow room for about 200 attendees. Attendee Thomas Martin remarked that Kirk had a significant ability to connect with people. The vigil featured buttons, electronic candles, American flags, and a slideshow displaying images of Kirk and his family. Participants sang the U.S. national anthem, followed by a prayer, a moment of silence, and the hymn “Amazing Grace.” The vigil lasted around 20 minutes and was followed by a gathering at the location where Kirk had previously spoken. During the event, a lone protester silently held a sign questioning the true meaning of being “pro-peace.” After the vigil, attendees shared eulogies and bible verses, notably highlighting the importance of continuing Kirk’s activism. A makeshift memorial was created at Crescent Hill Patio, adorned with American flags and candles. This vigil was part of multiple memorials held across Florida, including at other universities such as the University of Florida and Florida State University. USF President Rhea Law reiterated that the safety of all attendees was a “highest priority.” She emphasized the necessity of respect and civility among attendees, regardless of differing viewpoints. A suspect, identified as Tyler Robinson, was arrested and charged with Kirk’s murder a day after the incident, adding to the urgency and significance of the mourning event within the community. Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources Candlelight Vigil Held for Charlie Kirk at USFSP Shooting During Speech at Utah Valley University Leaves Community in Shock U.S. Officials React to the Shooting of Conservative Activist Recent Arrest in Charlie Kirk Murder Case Raises Questions Tragic Shooting Shakes Utah Community Candlelight Vigil Held for Conservative Influencer Tragedy Strikes at Utah Valley University During Speech Tragic Event at Utah Valley University: Activist Fatally Shot Additional Resources WFLA: More than 2000 people attend USF vigil for Charlie Kirk WFLA: He stood firm on his beliefs, 2000 attend vigil for Charlie Kirk at USF Crowsnest St. Pete: USF Responds to Charlie Kirk’s Death and Urges Civil Discourse USF Oracle: USF Charlie Kirk Memorial Draws Thousands Fox 13 News: Charlie Kirk Death Data Shows Rise in Political Violence Wikipedia: Charlie Kirk Google Search: Charlie Kirk Google Scholar: Charlie Kirk Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlie Kirk Google News: Charlie Kirk
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough 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 Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
