An Army colonel has been suspended after publicly mocking the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Colonel Scott Stephens was removed from duty following his social media post.
Stephens’ Post
Stephens wrote that Kirk’s death was “tragic” but deserved.
He accused Kirk of spreading “hate, racism, homophobia, misogyny and transphobia.”
He claimed he could not offer empathy because “Charlie hated empathy.”
Department Response
The Department of War suspended Stephens after reviewing his post.
The suspension was confirmed over the weekend.
Pete Hegseth
Stephens faces further investigation and possible disciplinary measures.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said his agency has “zero tolerance” for such behavior.
Spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed the matter was being tracked closely.
“All cases will be addressed immediately,” Parnell said.
Online Backlash
One Facebook user pushed back on Stephens’ remarks.
Scott Stephens
“He did not deserve to be assassinated. It’s evil,” the commenter wrote.
Stephens replied that Kirk “spent years inciting political violence.”
Critics said Stephens insulted Kirk’s wife and children.
They argued his comments made light of a widow and fatherless children.
Calls quickly mounted for his suspension and discipline.
Kirk’s Assassination
Charlie Kirk was assassinated last week at Utah Valley University.
The Turning Point USA founder was a husband and father of two.
His killing shocked conservatives nationwide and sparked tributes across the country.
