While discussing the still-developing story, the guest speculated, “We don’t know if this was a supporter shooting their gun off in celebration, or…” before trailing off. Although they prefaced the comment by emphasizing that details were unclear, many viewers found the suggestion both inappropriate and insensitive given the severity of the incident.

Law enforcement officials have not released any motive or confirmed identity of the shooter, and the investigation is ongoing. Kirk was shot in the neck during a campus event and remains in critical condition, according to Turning Point USA. The suspect was reportedly taken into custody shortly after the shooting, but no further official statements have been made regarding the attacker’s background or intent.

The MSNBC comment quickly spread on social media, with critics accusing the network of downplaying the seriousness of the situation