Fox News Host Apologizes for Suggesting Homeless Should Get 'Lethal Injection'

Fox News Host Faces Backlash Over Controversial Homeless Comments

Fox News host Brian Kilmeade has issued a public apology after suggesting during a live broadcast that homeless individuals with mental health issues should receive "involuntary lethal injection." The controversial remarks came during a discussion about the recent murder of a Ukrainian refugee in North Carolina.

The Controversial Segment

During Wednesday's episode of Fox & Friends, Kilmeade and co-host Lawrence Jones were discussing the tragic stabbing death of 23-year-old Iryna Zaroetska, a Ukrainian refugee killed in a metro station. The perpetrator was identified as a repeat offender with a history of psychiatric institutionalization.

When Jones argued that violent homeless individuals should be incarcerated if they refuse treatment, Kilmeade escalated the rhetoric dramatically: "Or involuntary lethal injection or something. Just kill them."

Immediate Backlash and Political Reactions

The comments sparked immediate outrage across the political spectrum. Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell questioned: "Am I crazy or do we really want to euthanize homeless people?" California Governor Gavin Newsom quoted biblical scripture in response, while Republican Adam Kinzinger called the remarks "sick."

Christine Quinn, director of a New York homeless shelter, condemned the comments as "inhumane and intended to divide and incite." She extended an invitation to Kilmeade: "Come help at the shelter and see what homelessness really looks like. We can always use help."

Public Apology and Aftermath

In a rare move for Fox News, Kilmeade issued an on-air apology during the weekend edition of his show. "During the discussion, I inappropriately suggested lethal injection. My apologies for that particularly heartless remark," he stated. "I am obviously aware that not all homeless people with mental problems behave like the perpetrator in North Carolina. Many of them deserve our empathy and compassion."

The incident highlights the ongoing national debate about homelessness, mental health treatment, and public safety in American cities. According to recent data, homelessness in the United States reached record levels in 2024, with more than 770,000 people experiencing homelessness on any given night.