About 60 people gathered Sunday evening at Town Field in Highland for a candlelight vigil honoring conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot earlier this month at an event in Utah.

The vigil was organized by Alexandra Fattibene, Nicole Teresa and Christopher Fattibene. Alexandra Fattibene, who opened the program, said she had not been active in political or social movements recently but felt compelled to act after Kirk’s death.

“It was time,” she said, before beginning with the words, “I am Charlie Kirk,” a phrase echoed at similar vigils across the country.

Kirk, 31, co-founded the conservative group Turning Point USA in 2012 and hosted The Charlie Kirk Show. He was shot and killed Sept. 10 during an event in Orem, Utah. Authorities arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson two days later in connection with the killing.

Lloyd Town Supervisor Dave Plavchak told the crowd his office serves all residents, regardless of political affiliation.

“When you come into my office, I don’t ask if you are Republican or Democrat,” he said.

Candles were distributed at the start of the program, and donations were collected to cover police overtime for the event. Organizers said any additional funds would be given to Turning Point USA. Fattibene said she hoped to see a chapter of the organization formed in Dutchess County.

Pastor Steve Sherwood of Clintondale Christian Church also addressed mourners. In a statement shared on social media, he described Kirk as “a great Christian, a great American, a great apologist, and an intelligent voice of reason.”

“A very sad day for America when we can’t disagree but rather kill,” Sherwood posted on social media. “God bless and keep his wife and children. May they grow up to be an even greater voice for Jesus Christ.”