The Carolina Panthers have dismissed a communications staff member due to “insensitive social media posts” made following the tragic shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Wednesday.
According to the Charlotte Observer, Football Communications Coordinator Charlie Locke was let go as a result of these posts, as reported by various sources.
“The opinions shared by our employees are their own and do not represent the views of the Carolina Panthers. We do not condone any form of violence and take such matters very seriously,” the Panthers stated in a message on X.
Many users on X connected the Panthers to Kirk’s image with comments questioning the sadness of his death, suggesting sentiments like, “Why is it sad? Your man said it was worth it.”
Kirk, a co-founder of Turning Point USA, was killed while speaking at an outdoor event at Utah Valley University. He was just 31 years old.
President Trump acknowledged Kirk’s passing in a statement, expressing that Kirk understood the youth of America better than most. He shared condolences to Kirk’s family, saying, “Charlie, we love you!”
The Yankees awarded Kirk posthumously on the same evening.
Trump is set to attend a game in the Bronx on the 24th anniversary of September 11, 2001, where it was announced that Kirk would receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom following his death.
The weapon used in the shooting was reportedly found during the search for Kirk’s assailant.
