BLACKSBURG, Va. (WFXR) – Days after the shooting death of political influencer Charlie Kirk, a vigil was held for him at Virginia Tech.

The vigil, hosted by the College Republicans at Virginia Tech and Turning Point USA VT, took place on the Drillfield in front of the chapel.

Jacob Taylor, the secretary and treasurer of Turning Point USA VT, spoke at the vigil.

“Through his contributions, he empowered numerous young individuals, encouraged our generation to become active participants in the political arena, and ensured their voices were noticed. He profoundly shaped the conversation surrounding the 2024 election and voter shifts,” he remarked. “He also inspired people to transform their feelings and frustrations with contemporary society into a force that promotes productivity, order, and rationality, prompting them to create rather than destroy. Now, we’ve lost that influential voice and a cornerstone of our movement.”

The Republican candidate for Governor and current Lieutenant Governor, Winsome Earle-Sears, was also present at the vigil.

“It is a tragedy for all of us, all of us who believe in the right to speak, to think, and to live free from violence,” Earle-Sears expressed.

“If we don’t have the ability to speak freely in America, then what do we have?” Earle-Sears asked the crowd.

In a post on X on Wednesday, former Congresswoman and Democratic candidate for governor Abigail Spanberger shared the following statement:

“I am deeply shocked by the assassination of Charlie Kirk today. Adam and I extend our heartfelt prayers to his family and the entire Utah Valley University community affected by this terrible tragedy. Political violence has no rightful place in our nation. It is imperative that this violent offender is apprehended and held accountable.”

Amongst those present at the vigil were Congressmen John McGuire and Morgan Griffith, Montgomery County Sheriff Hank Partin, and Delegate Chris Obenshain.

Kirk was shot on Wednesday, September 10, during an event held at Utah Valley University. He was later pronounced dead.

Authorities now have a suspect in custody, identified as Tyler Robinson, 22.