The sudden and violent death of the American activist Charlie Kirk, who rallied a youth movement and held celebrity status among his fans, has sparked fierce debate over his political legacy.
The 31-year-old's young supporters appreciated his conservative Christian values and frank opinions. Speaking to the BBC, many were in tears as they remembered a man who listened to them and understood their concerns.
His views were polarising on the college campuses where he held large events, and his provocative speeches would draw crowds of vocal opponents as well as fans.
Kirk was a strong supporter of gun rights, vehemently opposed abortion, was critical of transgender rights and promoted false claims about Covid-19. He wasn't shy when it came to expressing his views - and his detractors also didn't hold back.
Now, both supporters and opponents have been left shaken after he was killed by a single shot on stage while debating at a university in Utah.
In an emotional video posted to his millions of followers, left-wing influencer Dean Withers expressed his sadness about the event, condemning political violence.
Comments regarding Kirk's death have spurred broader discussions about political violence, with many asserting that, regardless of differing views, such actions can never be justified.
Kirk's passing has also renewed discussions about his polarized legacy as an activist who significantly influenced young conservatives, with supporters lauding him for encouraging them to embrace their beliefs.
Many young people have shared mixed feelings, grappling with admiration for the way he rallied support while simultaneously acknowledging the divisive nature of his rhetoric.
As condolences pour in for Kirk's family, a consistent theme emerges: promoting dialogue, even when deeply divided, remains paramount for a healthy political discourse.
