Boston, September 19, 2025
News Summary
A candlelight vigil for conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Boston Common attracted over 3,500 attendees. The event was organized by Brian Foley and included prayers, speeches, and chanting. Despite a peaceful atmosphere, counter-protests and early ending due to safety concerns marked the night, with two arrests occurring. Kirk was shot in the neck in a separate incident in Utah.
BostonA candlelight vigil for conservative activist Charlie Kirk attracted over 3,500 attendees to the Boston Common. The event drew supporters, prompted counter-protests and prompted a sizable law enforcement response as organizers ended the gathering early citing safety concerns.
What happened
The vigil was organized by Brian Foley, a 27-year-old who ran for Boston City Council this year. The event, which began at 7 p.m., featured candles, True Patriot t-shirts with Kirk’s face, prayers, and various speakers. No elected officials attended despite invitations, according to organizers.
Kirk, 31, was shot in the neck while speaking to a crowd in Utah on September 10. The individual accused of Kirk’s assassination is Tyler Robinson, 22, who faces aggravated murder charges.
Crowd and atmosphere
Organizers reported over 3,500 people on the Boston Common for the candlelight vigil. Attendees moved into areas near the Shaw Memorial and along Beacon Street in front of the Statehouse, which were blocked off for safety. Participants sang Amazing Grace, recited the Lord’s Prayer, and chanted phrases including USA, Charlie Kirk and Freedom during the vigil. The event was broadly described by participants as a peaceful celebration of Kirk’s legacy and influence, with many expressing sadness over his death and emphasizing disdain for political violence and the need for free speech.
Speakers and groups
Speakers included local student leaders and representatives from organizations such as Turning Point USA, Massachusetts Family Institute, and Moms for Liberty. The program also included prayers and brief remarks from several local organizers and student activists.
Counter-protests and police response
A smaller group of dissenters gathered outside the vigil. Counter-protesters numbered roughly 20 to 40 at times and used drums and blowhorns to make noise aimed at disrupting the speakers. One counter-protester was escorted away by police after shouting a political denunciation during the event.
Boston police maintained a large presence throughout the evening to monitor tensions and keep the groups separated. Officers blocked off sections around the Shaw Memorial and Beacon Street to manage movement and maintain safety. Brian Foley ended the event early after receiving a call from Boston police expressing safety concerns due to rising tensions.
Arrests and safety incidents
Two individuals were arrested during the vigil: Joseph Antuan Castro Del Rio, 38, for disorderly conduct, and a juvenile for assault and battery and possession of a knife. Police said the arrests were made in response to behavior that threatened safety near the event perimeter.
Context and background
Charlie Kirk was known for galvanizing a conservative youth movement and was a close ally of former President Donald Trump. He had been a vocal opponent of certain social policies and frequently used incendiary rhetoric against various groups, which contributed to his controversial public profile. A second vigil for Kirk was previously held at the University of New Hampshire and also faced counter-protests.
Logistics and public safety notes
The police presence, barricades and early end to the vigil reflect managing tactics officials use when public gatherings attract competing groups. Organizers said they had invited elected officials but that none attended. Event organizers and police worked to separate attendees and counter-protesters to reduce the likelihood of physical confrontations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people attended the vigil?
A candlelight vigil for conservative activist Charlie Kirk attracted over 3,500 attendees to the Boston Common.
Who organized the vigil?
The vigil was organized by Brian Foley, a 27-year-old who ran for Boston City Council this year.
When and where was Charlie Kirk shot?
Kirk, 31, was shot in the neck while speaking to a crowd in Utah on September 10.
Were there arrests at the vigil?
Two individuals were arrested during the vigil: Joseph Antuan Castro Del Rio, 38, for disorderly conduct, and a juvenile for assault and battery and possession of a knife.
Who is accused of Kirk’s assassination?
The individual accused of Kirk’s assassination is Tyler Robinson, 22, who faces aggravated murder charges.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event | Candlelight vigil for Charlie Kirk |
| Date/time (start) | The event began at 7 p.m. |
| Location | Boston Common; near Shaw Memorial and Beacon Street in front of the Statehouse |
| Attendance | Over 3,500 attendees |
| Organizer | Brian Foley, a 27-year-old who ran for Boston City Council this year |
| Notable arrests | Joseph Antuan Castro Del Rio, 38 (disorderly conduct); a juvenile (assault and battery and possession of a knife) |
| Accused in shooting | Tyler Robinson, 22 (faces aggravated murder charges) |
| Groups represented | Turning Point USA; Massachusetts Family Institute; Moms for Liberty; local student leaders |
| Police action | Large police presence; sections blocked for safety; event ended early after police expressed safety concerns |
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Boston.com: Charlie Kirk Vigil Draws Thousands
- WCVB: 2 Arrested as Hundreds Attend Vigil
- Boston Globe: Charlie Kirk Vigil in Boston Common
- WHDH: Organizer Shares Message of Unity Ahead of Vigil
- Wikipedia: Charlie Kirk
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
BOSTON STAFF WRITER The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk 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 Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
