The person you are likely hearing about in the news recently is David Engelhardt, a New York City-based attorney, pastor of Kings' Church NYC, and a board member of the organization Turning Point USA.
He has been a subject of news coverage in July 2026 due to his involvement in the legal proceedings surrounding the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. During a preliminary hearing for the man accused of the shooting, prosecutors introduced a written statement from Engelhardt as evidence. This statement became a point of contention in court, as defense attorneys argued that it contained Engelhardt's personal opinions on religious and political topics—such as gender identity and marriage—which they claimed were irrelevant to the criminal case.
The Dave Engelhard (without a final 't') I knew from the class of '89 is living in New Jersey (last I heard) and was originally from Grand Rapids and son of the late Dave Engelhard Sr. (former Hebrew professor at Calvin Seminary and CRC administration staff). His mother Jean is/was a nursing supervisor at Blodgett Hospital. He also has two sisters: Kris & Erin. They grew up on Blaine Street. Prayers for their family
