Washington high school principal 'stepping away' from role after mocking Charlie Kirk’s assassination

A Washington state high school principal has announced he is stepping away from his role after posting a controversial message on social media mocking the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Erik McDowell, principal of North Creek High School in Bothell, drew backlash after sharing an Instagram story that read: “Thoughts and prayers. Too bad gun control would have been far far more effective (he’d still be alive). Maybe thoughts and prayers will work…oops – nope.”

The now-deleted post included a photo of Kirk with the caption, “Pray For Charlie Kirk.”

The Instagram post triggered multiple complaints from parents and community members. On Thursday, the Northshore School District issued a public statement acknowledging the controversy without naming McDowell directly.

“Northshore is committed to providing safe, welcoming, and supportive learning and working environments for all of our students, families, and staff,” the district said. “We are aware of the personal Instagram story made by one of our administrators. The concerned individuals were informed of the district’s formal complaint process. While we can’t discuss personnel issues, we take all concerns seriously and follow a standard response.”

The district encouraged parents and students with concerns to contact school staff or use its Safe Schools Tip Line, noting that submissions can be made anonymously.

The day after the district’s statement, McDowell sent a letter to parents and staff saying he was "stepping away" from his role in response to the backlash. “I truly mean it when I say I condemn all political violence, including the cold-blooded assassination of Charlie Kirk,” McDowell wrote. “My post, sent as a private citizen on my personal Instagram account from my home, was meant to decry the lack of any forward progress on ending gun violence in America. It was not meant to demean the murder of Mr. Kirk. I truly wish what happened to Charlie Kirk did not happen—he did not deserve to be shot or killed.”

McDowell also apologized to Christians who may have been offended, noting his family is Christian. He described his post as poorly worded and open to misinterpretation.

“I definitely could have said things differently, and I apologize,” he said. “Despite the fact that I had no intent whatsoever to inflame the current political environment, I own the impact that my post has had.”

McDowell concluded his letter by announcing he would be stepping away as principal.

“I will be stepping away as principal of North Creek for the time being to reflect and ensure the focus of NCHS is on our students,” he wrote. “North Creek High School is an incredible community and our compassionate and kind students give me great hope for our collective future.”

The district has said Executive Director of Schools Heather Miller will work with staff on an interim coverage plan. McDowell's information has been scrubbed from the district's website.