Bandera residents are remembering conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed Sept. 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University. He was 31.
Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA and a leading voice in pro-Trump conservative politics, died during a live event that drew national attention and tributes from political leaders across the country. A suspect has been arrested, and the FBI confirmed agents are assisting with the investigation.
Former President Donald Trump issued a statement through the White House calling Kirk “The Great, and even Legendary” and praising his ability to connect with young Americans. “He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me,” Trump said. “Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott also honored Kirk by ordering all state government buildings to lower the U.S. and Texas flags to half-staff until sunset on Sept. 14.
“Cecilia and I are heartbroken by the assassination and passing of Charlie Kirk,” Abbott said in a statement. “Charlie’s voice was a beacon for millions of young Americans searching for truth, courage, and conviction. This senseless act of violence has no place in America. Our prayers are with Charlie’s family and his loved ones, especially the two young children he leaves behind. Texas stands with them in mourning and in honoring Charlie’s enduring legacy.”
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox condemned the shooting, calling it a “heinous act” and promising those responsible “will be held fully accountable.”
Remembering Bandera ties The news struck a chord in Bandera, where Kirk left a lasting impression during an April 2021 visit to Ridin’ the River Cowboy Church. The event drew more than 400 conservatives from across the Hill Country and beyond, including visitors from San Antonio, Austin, Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and Dallas.
At that appearance, Kirk urged Republicans to act boldly without self-censorship, warning of what he called a “courage gap” in politics. He framed liberty as the government not interfering with individuals’ pursuit of virtue and emphasized action-based engagement to protect American values.
Lynn Hauter, who chaired the Bandera County Republican Party at the time, said Kirk’s presence elevated the local chapter’s profile.
“I first met Charlie at an event in Washington, D.C., and was struck by how genuine and engaging he was in person—just as he is in public,” Hauter said. “I never imagined that a few years later he would graciously agree to be the keynote speaker for our small county in Texas. What happened next was extraordinary. His visit turned into the largest event the Bandera County Republican Party has ever had. We completely filled the Cowboy Church, with people traveling from San Antonio, Austin, and even Dallas just to hear him speak.
“What made it even more memorable was that a heavy rainstorm poured down all evening, yet no one left. Charlie embraced the challenge with humor, and later shared that it was one of his favorite events. True to his character, he never forgot little Bandera or the wonderful people he met there.”
Vigil at the courthouse Two days after the shooting, members of SonRise Christian Fellowship gathered on the steps of the Bandera County Courthouse to honor Kirk and his family with a prayer vigil.
Pastor Daryl Cheswick, who leads the weekly courthouse prayer gatherings, told attendees that Kirk embodied courage in the face of opposition.
“Charlie bravely looked evil in the face and spoke truth out of love for those who are deceived and lost,” Cheswick said. “He was murdered for his courage.”
Cheswick also prayed for strength in a time of grief.
“Thank God for the bravery of this young man,” he said. “We ask that you strengthen us, we are your mouthpieces, your body. Move in us to do the works of Jesus. Speak love to one another.”
Keith Preston, a Son-Rise church member, offered his own prayer, which called for mercy not only for Kirk’s family but also for the suspect.
“Have mercy on the person who did this,” Preston prayed. “We have all sinned. We have all fallen short. So, we truly each and every one of us deserve the flames of hell. But you made a way for us, so please Lord, have mercy.”
Preston added that Kirk’s life and work influenced many people to embrace Christianity.
“How many people died not knowing [God]?” Preston asked. “If they did not know you, they will end in eternal torment. We are not promised tomorrow. Let this gospel, this truth, this love, prevail in all our lives.”
A lasting impression For many in Bandera, Kirk’s death feels personal. His 2021 visit marked a high point for the county’s Republican Party and left a memory that Hauter said has endured.
“Charlie had a way of making even the smallest counties feel important,” Hauter said. “He didn’t just fly in, give a speech, and leave—he connected with people, and that’s what folks here remember most.”
SonRise Christian Fellowship hosts a prayer vigil every Thursday from 6–7 p.m. outside the Bandera Courthouse and has invited the community to continue lifting up Kirk’s family in prayer.
.png)
