WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - UNCW has released a statement following an incident involving students and a tribute in memory of Charlie Kirk.

Students affiliated with the candlelight vigil that was held Monday, Sept. 15, painted a spirit rock in honor of Kirk, according to UNCW officials.

On Tuesday, Sept. 16, University police responded to a confrontation between two groups of students. Police stated that students around the rock were approached by students who wanted to repaint the rock.

Police say the conversation eventually became confrontational, and students who wanted to change the rock poured paint onto the rock. Some students attempted to prevent this, but they were splashed with paint.

“The UNCW spirit rock is not a memorial. It is a platform for freedom of expression. Students

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