Jewish groups and leaders in the US mourned the death of Charlie Kirk on Wednesday, condemning his killing as political violence and offering condolences to his family.
The Jewish Federations of North America stated that, "Political violence has no place in our democracy. We extend our prayers and send our deepest sympathies to his loved ones during this difficult time."
The Republican Jewish Coalition stated, "Charlie has been a shining light in these troubled times for the American Jewish community, and we are deeply saddened at his passing. All people of goodwill must condemn this horrific murder.
"Our thoughts are with his family, including his wife and two young children. We are diminished by his loss. May his memory be a blessing."
Fellow conservative political commentator Ben Shapiro extended his condolences, "Like all of you, I am utterly stunned and heartbroken and sick to my soul today. It is unimaginable to write these words. I met Charlie Kirk when he was 18 years old.
"Charlie was a good man, a man who believed in right and wrong, who stood by his Biblical values. All of us will miss him, and I can’t imagine the pain of his beautiful young family, and we must all pray for them. And we must pick up the baton where Charlie left it, fighting for the things he believed in so passionately."
Rabbi Shmuley Boteach said he was "shocked to [his] core" on Kirk's death. "The demonization of pro-Israel activists and supporters in America and beyond has become absolutely lethal and deadly, and it must stop now."
Who was Charlie Kirk?
Kirk, 31, was the founder of Turning Point USA, a conservative student movement that grew into a national political force.
Known for his outspoken defense of US President Donald Trump and opposition to progressive policies, he became a leading figure of the American Right.