Lexington, Kentucky, September 16, 2025
News Summary
The University of Kentucky is probing comments made by employee Brad Van Hook related to the shooting death of Charlie Kirk, a conservative influencer. Van Hook’s remark, which echoed a quote by Clarence Darrow, faced backlash and has led to his placement on paid administrative leave. The university emphasized that such comments conflict with its values. This incident comes amid growing scrutiny over comments made by faculty across various universities following Kirk’s tragic death at Utah Valley University.
Lexington, Kentucky – The University of Kentucky (UK) is currently investigating an employee after he made an offensive remark regarding the shooting death of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk. Brad Van Hook, the key shop manager at the university, has been placed on paid administrative leave as the investigation unfolds. His comment, which paraphrased a quote from civil rights advocate Clarence Darrow, implied satisfaction over a person’s death, stirring outrage among many.
The controversy erupted when the social media account Libs of TikTok highlighted Van Hook’s comment, initially misidentifying him as an employee of Eastern Kentucky University (EKU). This oversight was quickly clarified, with UK confirming Van Hook’s actual association with the university. The university’s spokesperson emphasized that Van Hook’s remark is inconsistent with the values upheld by the university community, describing it as cruel, insensitive, and wrong.
Charlie Kirk was tragically shot and killed by an unknown assailant on September 10, 2025, while he was speaking at an event on the campus of Utah Valley University. The FBI is actively investigating the case, having released photos of a person of interest and offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the identification of the shooter.
This incident is not an isolated case. Other universities have fired employees for similar inappropriate remarks following Kirk’s death, including institutions like Middle Tennessee State University and the University of Mississippi. UK itself has encountered previous controversies; for example, it suspended law professor Ramsi Woodcock for making inflammatory comments advocating for the destruction of Israel.
Upon learning about Van Hook’s comments, the university referred the matter to the appropriate officials, indicating a commitment to addressing such issues seriously. As the investigation progresses, details will emerge regarding what actions may be taken against Van Hook and how such comments might impact the university’s community standards.
The investigation continues as the university reaffirms its dedication to maintaining an environment that reflects respect and dignity for all.
FAQ
What remark did Brad Van Hook make?
Van Hook paraphrased a quote by civil rights advocate Clarence Darrow, which suggested he felt satisfaction over someone’s death, prompting backlash.
What is the current status of the investigation?
Brad Van Hook is on paid administrative leave while the University of Kentucky investigates the situation.
Who is Charlie Kirk and what happened to him?
Charlie Kirk was a conservative influencer who was shot and killed on September 10, 2025, while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University.
What actions have other universities taken following Kirk’s death?
Several universities, including Middle Tennessee State University and the University of Mississippi, have dismissed employees for making inappropriate remarks about Kirk’s death.
What measures has the University of Kentucky taken in response to the comments?
The university has referred the matter to appropriate officials and publicly stated that the comments made do not reflect the community’s values.
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