Parsippany Mayor Shares Thoughts On Charlie Kirk Assassination

PARSIPPANY, NJ — Many local officials have spoken out on the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, including Parsippany Mayor James Barberio.

On Wednesday afternoon, Kirk, 31, was shot and killed while speaking at Utah Valley University. While authorities have arrested two people, they have since been released, and the killer is still at large as of Thursday morning, according to reports.

See More: Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk Shot Dead In Utah

In an announcement to Parsippany residents, Republican Mayor Barberio called Kirk’s assassination a “cowardly act” that serves as a reminder of “the challenges we face in promoting our values and ideals.”

“Charlie was not just a beacon of hope and a passionate advocate for our youth; he was a devoted husband and father, a guiding light to his beloved wife and children,” Barberio said on social media. “To his family, words seem inadequate to express the deep sorrow we all feel. Please know that you are surrounded by a community that stands with you in this painful moment. Your strength, love, and unity will light your path through this darkness.”

Barberio added that he intends to continue Kirk’s work, and hopes to “embody the values (Kirk) dedicated his life to.”

“We will remember Charlie not just for his exceptional contributions but for the warmth and kindness he shared with everyone around him,” the mayor said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all those whose lives he touched.”

Other NJ leaders have been vocal about Kirk’s assassination, including Governor Phil Murphy.

"Horrified by the shooting of Charlie Kirk today in Utah. We must unequivocally condemn political violence. Please pray for Charlie, his wife, and children," said Murphy on the social media platform X.

Read More: 'Horrified': NJ Reacts After Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk Shot Dead At University Event

While the motive behind Kirk’s assassination remains unknown at this time, the killing is the latest of several attacks on American political figures.

In June, two lawmakers and their spouses were shot in their homes in what officials called politically motivated attacks.

In July 2024, President Donald Trump was shot during a rally in Pennsylvania. The bullet skimmed Trump and killed volunteer firefighter Corey Comperatore, who was standing behind the president.

Barberio also issued a statement regarding Trump’s assassination attempt in 2024, saying he was “deeply shocked and saddened.”