Vigil for slain conservative leader draws large crowd to MH Park

A vigil held Friday evening at Hickory Park in Mountain Home for slain conservative leader Charlie Kirk drew a large crowd of local residents and supporters for a time of reflection and sharing.

The event was organized by Promised Land resident Morgan Dawson and came together by word of mouth in the days following the shooting. It was announced last week that with growing interest in the gathering that the stage would be used in the park to host speakers and music. An estimated 700 plus were in attendance at the midtown park.

Various local musicians shared original music as well as traditional hymns. Local pastors and community members spoke on the impact of Charlie Kirk’s life and how the national event had effected conservatives and supporters in the Twin Lakes Area.

State Representative for District 4, Jason Nazarenko, was among the speakers and spoke on his experience with the news of the death of Kirk. “It’s hard to put into words; I remember the first message I received that Charlie had been shot- I began to pray. Charlie Kirk spoke the truth in everything he did. We all have felt anger and sadness going back and forth. I know I am going to see Charlie again.” The state representative led the crowd in prayer and called for those in attendance to turn towards faith. “Let this be your turning point tonight.”

David Taylor, an event organizer, spoke with KTLO News during the event and was not surprised to see so many in attendance.

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The Mountain Home Police Department was contracted to assist with security for the event according to Police Chief Eddie Griffin. All reports say the event was peaceful and respectful.

31-year-old Charlie Kirk was a prominent conservative political activist best known as the co-founder of Turning Point USA and a strong voice in the MAGA movement. He was killed on September 10 while speaking at an outdoor event at Utah Valley University. A 22-year-old man, Tyler James Robinson, was arrested two days later and charged with aggravated murder along with other related charges.

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