NFL franchise Carolina Panthers have fired a member of their non-playing staff who mocked the shooting of Charlie Kirk on his personal social media page.
Charlie Rock, who was a member of the Panthers’ communications department, received his marching orders for the ‘insensitive social media post’.
The NFL side confirmed their decision in a statement on Thursday morning.
It said: “The views expressed by our employees are their own and do not represent those of the Carolina Panthers.
“We do not condone violence of any kind. We are taking this matter very seriously and have accordingly addressed it with the individual.”
What was the post?
Following the fatal shooting of Kirk, Rock took to his Instagram and posted a picture of the late political commentator, with the message: “Why are yall sad? Your man said it was worth it.”
Just In: The Panthers have FIRED an employee for his Instagram story posts mocking the death of Charlie Kirk yesterday.
“The views expressed by our employees are their own and do not represent those of the Carolina Panthers. We do not condone violence of any kind. We are taking… pic.twitter.com/ER8WOlb3p4
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) September 11, 2025
The second slide of his Instagram story included Wu-Tang Clan’s song ‘Protect Ya Neck’.
Users on X brought light to the story, tagging the official Panthers account to screenshots of Rock’s posts.
Kirk honored by sports world
Kirk was shot and killed on Wednesday during an outdoor event at Utah Valley University. The father of two was just 31 years old.
Countless figures from the world of sports posted their tributes to the late Kirk.
Former NFL quarterback Brett Favre said: “This is a tragic day for America. We must come together to stop the violence. Praying for Charlie Kirk’s family.”
New York Giants star Jaxson Dart added: “Praying for him and his family!! Charlie did great things for our country!! Political Violence NEEDS TO STOP!! Pray for our country man. This is disgusting and Sad!!!”
Certain sporting organisations also paid their respects, including the New York Yankees who held a moment of silence ahead of their MLB clash with the Detroit Tigers.
READ MORE: JAKE PAUL ISSUES VIRAL REACTION TO CHARLIE KIRK SHOOTING CALLING FOR ‘EVIL PEOPLE’ TO HEAL
