A Virginia-based hospital has fired a healthcare worker after she made a social media post that appeared to support the shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. The anesthesiologist, contracted through North American Partners in Anesthesia (NAPA), was terminated by Riverside Walter Reed Hospital in Gloucester, Virginia, for what the hospital described as “highly inappropriate comments supporting violence against a public figure.”
Charlie Kirk was recently shot while speaking at Utah Valley University. In the aftermath, several individuals across the country made online remarks celebrating or downplaying the attack. Among them was the now-former anesthesiologist, whose comments quickly drew public attention and institutional response.
According to a statement from the hospital, the employee’s post violated professional conduct standards and the values expected from those working in healthcare. Officials confirmed that by mid-morning on September 11, the employee was no longer affiliated with the facility. The hospital emphasized its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for patients and staff.
While the identity of the anesthesiologist has not been officially released, the decision to terminate was confirmed by both the hospital and the contracting agency. The hospital’s swift response signals a zero-tolerance policy for speech perceived as endorsing harm, especially when associated with high-profile political violence.
This case raises important questions about the intersection of free speech, public responsibility, and professional accountability. Healthcare professionals are bound by strict codes of ethics, and actions interpreted as supporting violence—even when made on personal platforms—can carry serious consequences.
