Lubbock, Texas, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Texas universities have taken significant actions following inappropriate behaviors by students at memorials for conservative influencer Charlie Kirk. A student from Texas Tech University was arrested for disrupting a memorial, leading to his expulsion. Texas State University similarly expelled a student involved in mocking Kirk’s death. Governor Greg Abbott criticized these actions and called for stricter measures to protect victims of violence and uphold respect in educational settings, sparking debates on free speech rights amidst ongoing investigations.
Lubbock, Texas – Following a series of incidents related to the actions of students at Texas universities after the assassination of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, significant consequences have emerged. An 18-year-old student, Camryn Booker, from Texas Tech University was arrested after disrupting a memorial for Kirk by shouting derogatory remarks and allegedly slapping a fellow student’s hat. Texas Tech University has since confirmed that Booker is “no longer enrolled” at the institution.
The university condemned such behavior as inappropriate, stating that it violates the institution’s values and disrespects victims of violence. Texas Governor Greg Abbott publicly criticized Booker’s actions, asserting that mocking the death of Charlie Kirk was misguided and calling for stronger measures against similar behavior.
In a closely related matter, Abbott also demanded the expulsion of a presumed Texas State University student who was involved in a video that mocked Kirk’s death. This led Texas State University President, Dr. Kelly Damphousse, to issue a statement condemning the video and announcing an investigation to identify the individual behind it. Texas State University later confirmed that the implicated person is “no longer a student” at the university.
The actions taken by Texas universities and state officials have raised concerns regarding free speech rights, particularly with respect to the First Amendment. Robert Shibley from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression commented that while offensive expressions are generally protected, any governmental response must be supported by evidence of incitement to imminent lawless action.
As investigations into Charlie Kirk’s assassination on September 10 continue, Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath noted that the Texas Education Agency is looking into educators who posted “reprehensible or inappropriate” comments related to the events surrounding Kirk’s death. The investigation aims to address any possible violations of professional conduct by educators.
In summary, the reactions from Texas universities and the state government signal a serious stance against behavior that undermines respect for victims of violence, balanced against the backdrop of complex issues surrounding free speech and student conduct in higher education.
Background Context
Charlie Kirk was assassinated on September 10, with ongoing investigations into the motives and connections surrounding this tragic event. His death has spurred various reactions across social media and among students, leading to significant discussions about respect and the limits of free speech in educational settings. As the controversy unfolds, different stakeholders are navigating the challenge of balancing freedom of expression with the need to promote a respectful and safe community.
FAQ Section
What was the incident involving Camryn Booker at Texas Tech University?
An 18-year-old student at Texas Tech University was arrested following a confrontation at a memorial for conservative influencer Charlie Kirk.
What actions did Camryn Booker take during the memorial?
The student, Camryn Booker, was accused of disrupting the memorial by shouting derogatory remarks and allegedly slapping a fellow student’s hat.
What consequences did Camryn Booker face after the incident?
Texas Tech University confirmed that Booker is “no longer enrolled” at the institution following the incident.
How did Texas Governor Greg Abbott react to the behavior displayed at the memorial?
Texas Governor Greg Abbott criticized the behavior and supported the university’s decision, calling it “the wrong school to taunt the death of Charlie Kirk.”
What did Texas State University do in response to a similar incident?
Texas State University President Dr. Kelly Damphousse issued a statement condemning the behavior shown in the video and announced an investigation to identify the individual involved.
What has been the response from the Texas Education Agency?
Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath stated that the Texas Education Agency is investigating teachers who posted “reprehensible or inappropriate” content related to the incident.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Student Arrested | Camryn Booker, an 18-year-old, was arrested for inappropriate behavior at a memorial. |
| University Response | Texas Tech University confirmed Booker is “no longer enrolled” and condemned the actions. |
| Governor’s Stance | Texas Governor Abbott criticized the actions and called for tougher measures against similar behavior. |
| Related Incident | Texas State University investigated a video mocking Kirk’s death and confirmed the implicated individual is “no longer a student.” |
| Free Speech Concerns | Debates over free speech rights and the limits of expression in educational settings have arisen. |
| Ongoing Investigations | The Texas Education Agency is also investigating teachers for inappropriate conduct related to the incident. |
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Additional Resources
- Houston Chronicle: Charlie Kirk and Texas Teachers
- KVUE: Texas Tech Student Expelled
- Washington Post: Texas Tech Incident
- CBS News: Cruz Paints Over Kirk Graffiti
- Fox News: Charlie Kirk Incident Coverage
- Wikipedia: Charlie Kirk
- Google Search: Charlie Kirk
- Google Scholar: Charlie Kirk
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlie Kirk
- Google News: Charlie Kirk
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