Republicans from Richland County expressed sorrow over the shooting death of conservative leader Charlie Kirk.
Kirk, 31, was killed by a single gunshot Sept. 10 while speaking in front of some 3,000 people as part of his “American Comeback Tour” at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, about 40 miles south of Salt Lake City.
A suspect has been identified as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, according to Utah Gov. Spencer Cox.
Robinson was taken into custody Sept. 12 after a family member contacted a family friend, who told authorities Robinson had “confessed to them or implied that he committed the incident.”
Members of the GOP elected in Richland County had the following to say:
Marilyn John, state representative and Ohio House majority floor leader
“Charlie Kirk was a man of faith who inspired millions of young people to become engaged in the political process and care about their country,” State Rep. Marilyn John (R-Richland County) said.
“He spent time talking with those he disagreed and who disagreed with him because, as he said often, when conversations stop, violence can happen. I pray those he inspired take up this mantel and talk to one another, especially those with whom they disagree. This type of violence has no place in a civilized country. Prayers for his family and our country.”
Mark Romanchuk, state senator
“The assassination of Charlie Kirk is a horrendous tragedy that has absolutely no place in our republic,” State Sen. Mark Romanchuk, (R-Richland County) said.
“America’s First Amendment guarantees free speech, and the exchange of ideas was embodied by Charlie Kirk and his work. I’m grateful that our nation’s law enforcement has captured the perpetrator. Zoi (Romanchuk) and I are praying for Charlie’s family and everyone who knew him.”
Tony Vero, Richland County commissioner
“The tragic loss of Charlie Kirk is heartbreaking, and sincerest condolences go to his family, especially his wife and young children,” Richland County Commissioner Tony Vero said.
“Disagreement is part of a free society, and violence can never be the answer. We must reject hatred and choose civility, even in our deepest of disagreements.”
Steven L. Schag, mayor of Shelby
“I really don’t have much to add to what has already been said,” Shelby Mayor Steven L. Schag said.
“I pray that the unique life and legacy of Charlie Kirk will eclipse this awful act of violence. As a Christian compassionate conservative, my focus will remain to overcome evil with good.”
Aurelio Diaz, member of Mansfield City Council
Aurelio Diaz, a member of Mansfield City Council and a political independent, said he often looks back at how closely people came together and bonded in their vulnerability after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
He said he was shocked to notice “how desensitized we’ve become to murder, to suffering, to human loss” in just a few short years since.
“Let me be clear: death by violence should never be celebrated, ever,” Diaz said. “Children, civilians, leaders, all people have the right to exist, to believe and to express themselves without fear of persecution or execution.
“When you openly express your views on social media but condemn and silence those who think differently, you’re not standing for justice, you’re standing for dominance. That’s not liberation. It’s oppression, repackaged.”
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This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Republicans from Richland County react to shooting death of Charlie Kirk
Reporting by Zach Tuggle, Mansfield News Journal / Mansfield News Journal
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