A New Jersey nurse has publicly addressed her suspension from Englewood Health after reporting a doctor who allegedly celebrated the death of Charlie Kirk. Lexi Kuenzle, a nurse with ten years of experience, including nearly two years at the hospital, claims the incident unfolded following news of Kirk’s fatal shooting at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025.
During her shift, Kuenzle alleges that Dr. Matthew Jung, a colleague, openly expressed joy over Kirk’s death in front of other staff members and patients. The controversial conservative figure’s death sparked varied reactions due to his polarizing political views.
According to Kuenzle, Dr. Jung remarked that Kirk “had it coming” and “deserved it” because of his outspoken stances. The comments, made in a hospital setting, shocked Kuenzle and others who witnessed the moment.
Deeply troubled, Kuenzle reported Dr. Jung’s statements to hospital management, believing they violated professional ethics. She claims her decision to speak out led to her immediate suspension without pay, prompting a strong reaction.
Kuenzle has since filed a lawsuit against Englewood Health and Dr. Jung, alleging wrongful suspension. The suit argues that Jung’s behavior contradicts the Hippocratic Oath and the American Medical Association’s Code of Medical Ethics, given Kirk’s role as a non-violent speaker.
The lawsuit details that Dr. Jung made the remarks in front of Kuenzle, eight other nurses, and a patient on a stretcher. The public nature of the comments heightened their impact, according to the filing.
Kuenzle expressed her shock, saying, “Oh, my God! That’s terrible! I love him!” upon learning of Kirk’s death. In response, Jung allegedly reiterated his disdain, stating he hated Kirk and believed the activist’s fate was justified.
When Kuenzle challenged Jung’s views, questioning how a doctor could condone someone’s death, he reportedly offered to buy lunch for her and others as an apology. Kuenzle found the gesture dismissive and insufficient.
Speaking to the New York Post, Kuenzle described Jung’s comments as “mind-blowing,” expressing anger and disbelief. As a nurse and admirer of Kirk, she felt compelled to take action.
After reporting the incident, Kuenzle shared her story on social media, which she believes contributed to her suspension the next day. She claims hospital management suggested she might face termination.
Englewood Health issued a statement, confirming that both Kuenzle and Dr. Jung were suspended pending a thorough investigation. The hospital emphasized that this followed standard protocol to ensure fairness and safety.
The hospital clarified that, despite some reports, Kuenzle was not fired. They also noted that any suggestion she should seek other employment was not an official statement from Englewood Health.
The case has sparked broader conversations about workplace ethics and political expression in professional settings. Kuenzle’s lawsuit seeks to address what she sees as unjust retaliation for her actions.
As the investigation continues, the incident underscores tensions surrounding political discourse in high-stakes environments like hospitals. UNIGAG has reached out to Englewood Health for further comment, with the story still developing.