CLERMONT, Fla. – More than a hundred people gathered at Camping World RV in Clermont with candles in hand to mourn conservative influencer Charlie Kirk who was shot and killed at a Utah college event on Wednesday.
[Conservative activist Charlie Kirk assassinated at Utah university]
Chris Cornet and his family joined the gathering on Saturday to pray and grieve.
“To have my child joke to me on the way up here, saying, ‘cause now you can get shot for disagreeing with someone.’ My 17-year-old daughter shouldn’t say that,” Cornet said.
Cornet added, “My heart breaks for his wife. My heart breaks for his children. My heart breaks that we all had to see that on social media, and his children are gonna be exposed to that on social media.”
Several other cities across Central Florida are also holding vigils, including in Kissimmee.
“He was a father. He was a human being,” said Kissimmee resident Darma Gonzalez.
Supporters at the vigils said Kirk’s killing was an attack on free speech.
“Our politicians, shame on them for spreading and being divisive, when we should all be together,” one supporter said.
Francis Soto of Kissimmee added, “Do it politely. Do it lovingly. Do it kindly. Be open to the other person’s opinion.”
On Friday, the Ormond Beach community came together mourn the death Kirk, drawing a couple hundred people carrying American flags and homemade signs.
[VIDEO: Vigil for Charlie Kirk held in Ormond Beach]
Many supporters said Kirk gave them confidence to share their beliefs, and even though he’s gone, his legacy won’t be forgotten.
More vigils are planned tomorrow, including one hosted by the Deltona mayor at 6 p.m.
Several people also gave speeches in Clermont including Lake County Commissioner Sean Parks and Caden Addeo from Turning Point USA.