The woman in the video has been identified as Lucy Martinez, a teacher at Nathan Hale Elementary School in Chicago’s West Beverly neighborhood. The footage shows Martinez laughing and mimicking being shot in the neck while surrounded by other protesters. The video was taken by a passenger in a pickup truck displaying a flag that labeled Charlie Kirk, the late conservative activist, as a “hero.” The driver of the truck was reportedly met with gestures from the demonstrators, including Martinez.
Several demonstrators at the protest were seen flipping the middle finger at the counter-protester, who was driving the pickup truck and waving a flag honoring Kirk.
Charlie Kirk was assassinated, during a speaking event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Tyler Robinson has been charged with aggravated murder in connection with the incident.
In response to the controversy, Nathan Hale Elementary School has taken down its official website and deleted its social media accounts. The school’s principal, Dawn Iles-Gomez, released a statement addressing threats received by the teacher on social media. Chicago Public Schools said it “remains committed to creating and maintaining a welcoming, safe and inclusive teaching and learning environment, free from harassment, bias, or harm of any kind.” While CPS does not comment on specific personnel matters the District follows a consistent process when allegations of misconduct are reported. Employees found to have violated Board policy are subject to disciplinary action.”
