San Marcos, Texas, September 17, 2025
News Summary
A Texas State University student was expelled for mocking the death of Charlie Kirk, co-founder of TurningPoint USA, during a campus vigil. This incident has raised debates about free speech and its limitations on campus. Texas Governor Greg Abbott condemned the behavior and called for the student’s immediate expulsion. The university’s president emphasized that the actions of one individual do not reflect the entire community, even as free speech discussions intensify in light of recent tragic events.
San Marcos, Texas – Texas State University Student Expelled After Mocking Charlie Kirk’s Death During Campus Vigil
A Texas State University student has been expelled for mocking the death of Charlie Kirk, co-founder of TurningPoint USA, following a campus vigil. The incident occurred on a Monday night shortly after Kirk was shot at a Utah Valley University event. The viral video shows the student mimicking Kirk’s assassination by grabbing his neck and collapsing to the ground while spitting on the ground in mockery.
Another student, Hayden Allard, reported hearing the expelled student say, “F Charlie Kirk, all my dead homies,” showcasing disdain towards Kirk. The video of the incident caught the attention of Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who posted it on social media platform X and called for the student’s immediate expulsion, stating that mocking an assassination must have consequences.
In response to the incident, Texas State University President Kelly Damphousse issued a statement condemning the behavior, asserting that it violates the university’s values and is intolerable. However, the university cited federal law as the reason for not providing specific comments on individual student conduct matters.
President Damphousse emphasized that the actions of one individual do not represent the entire Texas State community. This incident has ignited discussions regarding free speech on campus, with some students arguing that the expelled student should not face punishment for his opinions. One student, Audri Castillo, defended the student’s right to free speech provided it does not incite violence, while another student, Felix Federer, asserted that ‘The Quad’ area of campus is designated for free speech, suggesting that the student’s expulsion was unwarranted.
The event has stirred a wider debate surrounding free speech at universities, particularly following Kirk’s tragic death. Reports indicate that around 100 Texas educators are under investigation for their remarks related to Kirk’s assassination. Governor Abbott has indicated that teachers calling for violence could have their teaching certifications suspended, extending the state’s scrutiny to educational environments.
Similar actions have taken place at other Texas institutions, with the firing of Texas State University professor Dr. Thomas Alter occurring under allegations of inciting violence during an online socialism conference. Dr. Alter is now seeking legal action, claiming a violation of his First Amendment rights. Recent firings of faculty members have been attributed to perceived inappropriate comments relating to Kirk’s death, culminating in heightened tensions about free speech on campuses.
In light of these developments, Texas lawmakers have announced the formation of committees aimed at investigating bias and free speech issues as concerns mount over the suppression of expression in educational settings.
Background Context
Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist known for his provocative statements, was fatally shot during an event, prompting the campus vigil at Texas State University. The event has since become a flashpoint for discussions about the intersection of free speech and accountability for expressions of harm in academic environments, especially in the wake of Kirk’s assassination.
Key Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas |
| Incident Type | Mocking death during campus vigil |
| Student Response | Expelled for actions |
| State Reaction | Governor’s call for immediate expulsion |
| Free Speech Discussions | Campus debates about freedom of expression |
| Investigation | 100 educators under scrutiny |
FAQ
What prompted the student’s expulsion at Texas State University?
A Texas State University student was expelled after a video surfaced showing him mocking the death of Charlie Kirk, co-founder of TurningPoint USA, during a vigil on campus.
What was the content of the video that went viral?
In the viral video, the student can be seen grabbing his neck, collapsing to the floor, and spitting on the ground while mocking Kirk’s assassination.
What actions were taken by Texas State University’s President?
Texas State University President Kelly Damphousse issued a statement condemning the behavior, saying it violates the university’s values and will not be tolerated.
What has been the reaction from Texas Governor Greg Abbott?
Texas Governor Greg Abbott posted the video on social media platform X, calling for the student’s immediate expulsion, stating that mocking assassination must have consequences.
How has this incident impacted discussions on campus?
The incident has ignited discussions regarding free speech on campus, with some students arguing that the expelled student should not be punished for expressing his opinions.
What are the implications for educators in Texas following this event?
Around 100 Texas educators are reportedly under investigation for comments related to Kirk’s death, with Governor Abbott indicating that teachers calling for violence could have their teaching certifications suspended.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas Universities Respond to Controversial Student Actions
Texas State University Student Expelled for Mocking Vigil
Austin Schools Close Due to Safety Concerns
Texas Bill Targets Non-Human Behavior in Schools
University of Texas Suspends Student Leader Amid Free Speech Controversy
Additional Resources
- CBS Austin
- Wikipedia: Charlie Kirk
- The Chronicle of Higher Education
- Google Search: Charlie Kirk Texas State University
- Austin American-Statesman
- Google Scholar: Charlie Kirk assassination
- CBS Austin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas State University
- The Washington Post
- Google News: Texas State University Charlie Kirk
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
