Who Killed Chris Kyle

On February 2, 2013, American war hero and best-selling author, Chris Kyle, was murdered at a firing range near Chalk Mountain, Texas. Kyle had been shot and killed by Eddie Ray Routh, a 25-year-old Marine Corps veteran he was taking to the shooting range for Routh’s own therapy. The life of this heroic figure and what followed inspired millions and resulted in a major motion picture due to the incredible influence and appreciation of Kyle’s background and accomplishments.

Chris Kyle was a U.S. Navy seal, with the most sniper kills in U.S. military history. He rose to fame by writing his book American Sniper which recounts his dedicated career as a sniper with both his military and personal life stories. His warmth, loyalty and courage inspired people everywhere, especially those who are serving or have served in the military. Upon his death, he was honored with multiple memorial services; including one with a 21-gun salute, a crowd of over 5,000 people and a flyover of planes with U.S. Navy Seal flags. His death was met with shock and sadness, especially in the military community.

The killer, Eddie Ray Routh, was a Marine Corps veteran who suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder. It is believed that Routh, who was a friend of Kyle’s, experienced a mental breakdown and reacted in a violent manner when Kyle took him to the shooting range for therapeutic purposes. Routh was convicted of capital murder and was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

The death of Chris Kyle and the circumstances behind it are now an infamous part of American history. His memory lives on and continues to inspire us to be brave, loyal and courageous – values he stood for during his service and in his everyday life.