After the tragic shooting death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley College on September 10, disturbing reactions surfaced online — with some people celebrating the incident. Former NFL star **Dez Bryant** wasn’t having it.
Bryant, a former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver and three-time Pro Bowler, took to social media to express his dismay over the online response. “People cheering for Charlie Kirk’s death are seriously messed up,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter), adding, “Sending love to his family.”
Kirk, 31, was shot in the neck while speaking at a college event and later died at the hospital. He leaves behind a wife, Erika, and two children. Known for founding **Turning Point USA**, Kirk had a strong presence among conservative youth, boasting millions of followers online.
Tributes poured in from across the sports world. **Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker** honored Kirk’s faith and dedication to family, writing:
> “Thank you for your strong witness for Christ… Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord.”
Robert Griffin III also criticized those who applauded the tragedy:
> “Disagreeing politically is one thing. Celebrating someone’s death is despicable.”
Beyond sports, even the **New York Yankees** held a moment of silence at their game, recognizing Kirk’s impact and family.
Former President Donald Trump** also paid tribute on Truth Social, calling Kirk a “legendary” figure who deeply connected with American youth. He ordered flags across the nation to fly at half-mast until Sunday evening in Kirk’s honor.
Dez Bryant emphasized that his reaction wasn’t political — it was about basic decency. In his eyes, reveling in the death of a young husband and father crosses a line that should never be crossed.