ST. LANDRY PARISH — The fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University is raising new questions about political violence and public safety across the country, including here in Acadiana.
"The fact that it happened on a college campus is even worse, you know," said LSUE student Brit Vick. Vick said he was sick to his stomach when he heard about the shooting.
"It was sickening, and I was with the baseball team at practice, and we were all just devastated," he said.
The freshman added that something like this should have never happened.
"He was just expressing his beliefs, and in a free country, that is okay,” Vick said.
Local leaders and political experts said the tragedy shines a spotlight on the increasingly tense political climate and has sparked concerns about the future of free speech on college campuses.
Joey Richard with the Louisiana Democratic Party described the shooting as a wake-up call for Americans.
“This is a sad thing that has happened in our country," Richard said. "This is definitely an eye opener. At this time, we must come together as a country, put our differences aside, and move forward."
Craig Shilow with the St. Landry Parish Republican Party voiced his frustration and denounced political violence.
“There is nothing wrong with speaking at an open campus and having free dialogue. It hurts. I am angry and upset at what happened. This is not the American way. Political violence will solve nothing in this country,” Shilow said.
Pearson Cross with the University of Louisiana at Monroe said the shooting underscores how dangerous polarization can become.
“We’re becoming more polarized, and when people demonize each other, violence becomes more likely,” Cross explained.
Cross warned that the incident could have long-term impacts on both politicians and schools.
“I think this will have a chilling effect. People may start to self-censor, and campuses may be less likely to host controversial speakers—especially when student safety is a concern,” he added.
Still, some believe openness is worth defending. Vick said it’s vital for campuses to remain a space for free exchange of ideas.
“I think it’s important for America’s youth—the next leaders—to host these kinds of events, whether they agree or not. I just think its important to be able to host these things," Vick said.
Federal authorities are still looking for the suspect in this case. Charlie Kirk was 31 years old and leaves behind a wife and two children.
