Good morning Wilmington!

The candlelight vigil for Charlie Kirk at UNCW drew a turnout larger than anyone expected. My son and I tried to make it in time, but the crowd was so big we couldn’t even find parking. Still, the flowers, flags, and heartfelt tributes left at the site spoke volumes about his impact.

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• Hundreds Gather at UNCW Vigil to Honor Charlie Kirk’s Legacy

• Charlotte School Investigates Unauthorized Painting on Spirit Rock

Hundreds Gather at UNCW Vigil to Honor Charlie Kirk’s Legacy

[WECT] Nearly a week after conservative activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated on a Utah college campus, hundreds gathered at UNCW for a candlelight vigil in his honor. Organized by the school’s Turning Point USA chapter, the event drew far more attendees than expected, with students and community members leaving flowers, flags, and personal tributes. Speakers emphasized faith, free speech, and the importance of open debate as Kirk’s enduring legacy. Both College Republicans and Democrats at UNCW issued a rare joint statement condemning political violence, underscoring the broad impact of his death.

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Charlotte School Investigates Unauthorized Painting on Spirit Rock

[WCNC] Ardrey Kell High School officials are investigating vandalism to the school’s spirit rock, which was painted over the weekend with references to slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, the message “Live Like Kirk,” student names, “Freedom 1776,” and an American flag. Principal Susan Nichols confirmed the act was unauthorized and violates the district’s student conduct code. Students responsible may face disciplinary action, and law enforcement has been notified. Families are encouraged to report information through the district’s anonymous reporting app. The school emphasized that student and staff safety remains the top priority.

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News Roundup

Local News

Hundreds gathered at UNCW’s amphitheater for a vigil honoring conservative activist Charlie Kirk, with speakers vowing his movement will continue despite his death. WWAY

Ardrey Kell High School is investigating vandalism to its spirit rock, which was painted with messages referencing slain conservative Charlie Kirk, and students responsible could face disciplinary action. WCNC

What You Should Know

The suspect in Charlie Kirk’s killing, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, appeared to confess in a private Discord chat just hours before surrendering to law enforcement, saying “It was me at UVU yesterday.” MSN

Robert Redford, legendary actor, Oscar-winning director, and founder of the Sundance Film Festival, has died at 89 at his home in Utah. New York Times

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