Video from Utah Valley University showing a man cheering after Charlie Kirk’s assassination sparked outrage online. In the clip, a bearded man in a baseball cap raised his arms while others ducked for cover. Many viewers accused him of celebrating the activist’s death.
The footage quickly went viral, gathering millions of views on X and becoming one of the most shared images from the tragedy. Critics labeled his behavior disturbing and disrespectful in the aftermath of the shooting.
The man, identifying himself only as David, later released a statement denying the accusations. He insisted he was not celebrating but attempting to calm the crowd by shouting “USA! USA!” to project strength and prevent panic.
David explained that at first he thought the loud crack might have been fireworks, but when none appeared, he realized it was gunfire. Believing Kirk was badly hurt, he shouted to redirect energy and keep people focused rather than fueling chaos.
He emphasized that he was not a follower of Kirk’s work and never wished harm on anyone. Still, a second video he posted raised eyebrows, where he vaguely referred to “my soldiers, including Charlie,” and described himself as “the happiest person you ever met.”
Meanwhile, authorities arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, who faces aggravated murder charges for allegedly firing the fatal shot. His father reportedly turned him in after seeing FBI images.
Kirk, 31, died after being struck in the neck during a student debate. Tributes poured in across political lines, with Donald Trump calling him “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk.”
David’s viral moment illustrates how confusion and misinterpretation often spread in the immediate aftermath of tragedies. He maintains his actions were misunderstood, insisting: “I would never cheer for someone’s death.”
