Altercation breaks out during Charlie Kirk vigil at Idaho State Capitol, 2 taken into custody: report

Charlie Kirk Assassination and Aftermath

A significant altercation occurred following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old political activist, during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. Video footage captured the chaos surrounding the incident.

Reports indicate that a fight erupted in front of the Idaho State Capitol in Boise on the night of Kirk’s death. An individual wearing a white T-shirt and a rainbow-colored backpack reportedly shouted, “F-Charlie Kirk,” while riding a lime bike, which stirred up tension among the attendees. He was later identified as 41-year-old Terry Wilson, a local activist known for his work in the Black Lives Matter movement.

Tensions escalated when 51-year-old Alfonso Ayala confronted Wilson, leading to a heated exchange. Witnesses indicated that others urged them to calm down, while parts of the crowd began chanting “America! America!” Wilson was seen getting knocked down but soon stood back up, engaging in the fight until police and other participants intervened. Footage showed him crossing the street, calling out for “Free speech!” to the crowd, prompting a woman to shout back, “Get out of here!”

Eventually, both Wilson and Ayala were arrested. Reports from local news outlets indicated that Wilson was found in possession of firearms and marijuana while in custody. He faces misdemeanor charges for disrupting the peace and carrying a concealed weapon. After receiving medical treatment, he was booked into the Ada County Jail.

Ayala also faces similar misdemeanor charges related to the incident.

The Boise Police Department stated the next day that public safety remains their priority during community gatherings, especially pertaining to events like 9/11 memorials and vigils for Kirk. They emphasized their commitment to ensuring a secure environment for all attendees amidst the rising political tensions.

Additionally, it’s noted that Wilson has a prior history of activism and arrests. In 2021, he infamously vandalized a statue of Abraham Lincoln, resulting in community service and reparations.