The Pentagon has suspended Army Col. Scott Stephens following social media posts that appeared to celebrate the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The Army confirmed the suspension and said an investigation into Stephens’ conduct is now underway.
The posts in question included statements criticizing Kirk’s views and characterizing his death in a mocking tone. Among them: one post said Kirk died while “spreading hate, racism, homophobia, misogyny, and transphobia on college campuses,” and another declared “good riddance.” Stephens has not responded publicly.
Defense officials emphasized that the military holds its members to high standards and described the behavior as inconsistent with Army values. A Pentagon spokesperson reiterated that celebrating or mocking a fellow American’s assassination is unacceptable.
This move is part of a wider effort by Pentagon leadership to identify and discipline service members who have made public comments that endorse or trivialize the violence surrounding Kirk’s assassination. The investigation is ongoing.