URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — Less than 36 hours after conservative political activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at an event in Utah, dozens met on the University of Illinois campus Thursday evening for a vigil to remember his life.

“I was dumbfounded,” said U of I sophomore Sam Holmes.

Holmes is a sophomore at the U of I, and president of the school’s Turning Point USA chapter — the organization Kirk founded. Holmes said he got the news of Kirk’s death on Wednesday while at the gym and knew he wanted to do something.

“We ultimately decided that we need to do a commemoration event and as soon as possible,” Holmes said. “So that’s when the idea of a candle vigil first came to play in our group chat.”

Both students and adults say they’re feeling the weight of his death, and they want change.

“It’s very depressing for myself and for the country. Peace. Simply peace,” said community member Jerry Venute.

At the event, many shared their thoughts, praying for the kirk family and speaking out against political violence.

“God bless his family. God bless America,” Venute said.

Friday morning, authorities announced they had made an arrest of the suspect, identified as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson. At this time, he is believed to have acted alone, but the investigation is ongoing.

Kirk’s body was transported on the Vice President’s plane from Utah to Arizona Thursday evening. President Donald Trump said his funeral is scheduled for later this month.