MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WGNS) — A large, solemn crowd gathered Monday evening at The Fountains at Gateway in Murfreesboro to participate in a candlelight prayer vigil honoring Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist who was shot and killed last week in Utah. The gathering drew in hundreds even before the 7pm start time as WGNS' Big G TV was livestreaming coverage ahead of the ceremony.
Mourning and Community Response
Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr spoke to WGNS from the crowd, expressing both grief and admiration for how the community is responding.
“This is indicative of the care and the concern that this county has for Charlie and his family. His wife, his two kids, a lovely family,” Carr said. He praised the peaceful nature of the gathering: “We don’t burn things down, we don’t loot, we don’t destroy. We come together and pray and just find a way, struggle to find a way to heal our community.”
Carr also emphasized free speech, civility, and the importance of debate. “If we lose the ability to have civil discourse, to debate, vigorously debate, without violence … if we lose that, then we lose our republic,” he said. He described Kirk’s death as awakening a need for compassion, truth, and humility, even amid political disagreement.
The Vigil’s Setting and Atmosphere
As people streamed into the main stage area past The Fountains, Murfreesboro police had blocked nearby vehicle traffic to ensure pedestrian safety. Attendees of all ages—many young—arrived steadily. Some carried candles; many wore red hats. Tables were set up where participants could write notes of encouragement to Kirk’s family.
Worship music was also part of the program. The mood was quiet and reflective, yet firm in its message of love, prayer, and hope.
Posted by Rutherford County GOP on Monday, September 15, 2025
What We Know About Charlie Kirk’s Death
Charlie Kirk was fatally shot on September 10, 2025, at Utah Valley University in Orem during an event as part of his “American Comeback Tour.” He was wearing a “freedom” T-shirt at the time of the attack.
A suspect, 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson, was arrested on September 12.
Themes and Messages
Several themes emerged among those gathered:
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Unity over division: Despite deep partisan divides nationwide, speakers and attendees emphasized the need for civil discourse, healing, and working together—even when opinions differ.
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Free speech and dialogue: Many cited the importance of open debate and respecting dissenting views.
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Faith and prayer: Worship, scripture, and Christian values of mercy, humility, and justice were central. Mayor Carr quoted Micah 6:8: “Mankind, he has told each of you what is good and what it is the LORD requires of you: to act justly, to love faithfulness, and to walk humbly with your God.”
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Respectful remembrance: The peaceful atmosphere offered support to Kirk’s family while encouraging communities to heal rather than escalate conflict.
Broader Context
Kirk’s death has prompted vigils across the U.S. and in other countries around the world, with public officials, faith leaders, and community groups condemning political violence and calling for a return to civil discourse.
Looking Ahead
As the Murfreesboro vigil concluded, many called for action beyond mourning: maintaining respectful dialogue, protecting freedom of speech, and ensuring that political differences do not turn into violence.
