New York Yankees, NFL Stars Honor Charlie Kirk After Utah Shooting

Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA and a close ally of President Donald Trump, was fatally shot during a political event at Utah Valley University, prompting a nationwide outpouring of condolences and calls to end political violence. The New York Yankees honored Kirk with a moment of silence and a tribute on their jumbotron before their game against the Detroit Tigers, a gesture that drew both praise and criticism due to Kirk's controversial political positions. Various sports figures, including NFL stars and coaches, expressed heartfelt condolences and condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for political civility. Former ESPN anchor Sage Steele publicly urged major American sports leagues to officially recognize Kirk's death and offer condolences, highlighting that only the Yankees had done so among professional teams. President Trump announced he would posthumously award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom and planned to honor 9/11 victims at Yankee Stadium shortly after. The manhunt for Kirk's assassin is ongoing as the nation grapples with the impact of this politically motivated killing.