NJ Doctor Resigns After Nurse Reports Celebration of Charlie Kirk's Alleged Assassination
A New Jersey doctor has resigned from Englewood Health after a nurse, Lexi Kuenzle, reported that he allegedly celebrated the purported assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Kuenzle, who claims she was initially suspended for speaking out, will retain her position at the hospital.
The Incident and Initial Response
According to Kuenzle's lawsuit, the incident occurred on September 10th while she was at a nurses’ station. Upon hearing news of Kirk's purported death, Kuenzle expressed her distress, to which Dr. Matthew Jung allegedly responded with statements indicating he hated Kirk and believed he "deserved it." Kuenzle reported the incident to hospital management and posted about it on social media.
Following her report, Kuenzle claimed she was suspended without pay pending an investigation. A union representative reportedly suggested she seek other employment. Kuenzle's Instagram account, featuring conservative-leaning content, added fuel to the controversy.
Legal Action and Public Reaction
Kuenzle filed a lawsuit against Englewood Health and Dr. Jung, alleging wrongful suspension. She sought unspecified damages. The case drew attention from conservative figures, including Scott Presler, who questioned Dr. Jung's ability to treat patients with differing political views. Dhillon Law Group represented Kuenzle.
Englewood Health's Investigation and Resolution
Englewood Health stated that both Kuenzle and Jung were initially suspended to allow for a "thorough and fair investigation." The hospital has now confirmed that Dr. Jung has resigned, and Lexi Kuenzle will continue working her scheduled shifts. The hospital asserts that Kuenzle was never fired and will not lose any pay due to the review.
In a statement, Englewood Health emphasized its commitment to providing a "safe and respectful environment for all." The hospital has not disclosed the specific findings of its investigation.
Kuenzle's Perspective and Legal Counsel
Lexi Kuenzle appeared on "Fox & Friends," stating she felt obligated to report Dr. Jung's behavior. She stated, "Speaking up wasn’t optional for me; it was my duty as a nurse to protect patients from that kind of cruelty and to uphold the integrity of our profession." Her attorney, John-Paul Deol, called Kuenzle's initial suspension "unjust" and "unlawful."
