A solemn crowd of nearly 200 filled Madison Square Park to honor slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Dozens of candles flickered by the reflecting pool as supporters raised American flags and bowed their heads before a towering black-and-white poster reading “Charles James Kirk, 1993–2025.”
Roses were placed on the pavement beneath the tribute.
Mourners gather at Madison Square Park Friday night, holding candles and flags at a vigil for slain Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk. Aristide EconomopoulosThe New York Young Republican Club organized the vigil, drawing members in suits and dark clothing who circled the memorial, snapping photos and recording speeches on their phones.
Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, in his trademark red beret, joined the group, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the young conservatives.
Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, in his trademark red beret, joins the crowd honoring Charlie Kirk in Madison Square Park. Michael NigroThe crowd broke into “Amazing Grace,” a video posted on X showed, as the candles glowed against the Manhattan skyline.
The memorial was one of several across New York and part of a wave of remembrance nationwide following Kirk’s assassination.
The New York Young Republican Club organized Friday night’s vigil, drawing nearly 200 mourners to Madison Square Park. Michael NigroKirk, 31, co-founded Turning Point USA and became a leading voice for young conservatives, amassing a massive following on social media before he was gunned down Wednesday during a Q&A session in Utah.
Friday’s Manhattan gathering capped a week of tributes, as leaders across the political spectrum urged Americans to reject violence in the wake of the shocking killing.
