Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old conservative activist and Trump supporter, was fatally shot on September 10 during a campus debate at Utah Valley University. A single rifle shot struck him in the neck from about 200 yards away.

Authorities arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson of Utah, who faces charges of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, obstruction of justice, and witness tampering.

Kirk’s death has drawn widespread mourning but also sparked controversy. Some public figures made remarks many found offensive. Ava Raine, daughter of Dwayne Johnson, was criticized for a post seemingly aimed at Kirk. UK punk band Bob Vylan went further, calling him a “piece of s***.” MSNBC analyst Matthew Dowd lost his position after commenting on “hateful thoughts” tied to Kirk.

Actor Michael Keaton also received backlash for his speech at a journalism gala. While offering condolences, he added: “Regardless of how I disagreed with much of what he said, Charlie Kirk leaves behind two kids and a wife. Shooting people will never answer anything, and the irony that he was killed with a gun is unbelievable.”

Supporters lashed out, labeling Keaton “garbage” and accusing Hollywood of hypocrisy. Kirk’s death underscores both his polarizing legacy and America’s ongoing divide over gun violence.