Nurse’s Lawsuit Yields Resignation of NJ Surgeon and Reinstatement of Whistleblower

Lexi Kuenzle, a 33-year-old nurse at Englewood Health in New Jersey, was reinstated and a surgeon resigned after Kuenzle reported him for celebrating the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in front of patients and staff on September 10.

The nurse filed a retaliation and hostile-workplace lawsuit in Bergen County Superior Court, arguing her suspension without pay violated her rights after she challenged Dr. Matthew Jung’s remarks. Her legal action prompted a hospital investigation and swift response.

Nut Graf

Kuenzle’s suit spotlighted ethics and free-speech issues in healthcare settings, triggering national attention. Englewood Health’s acceptance of Dr. Jung’s resignation and restoration of her position underscores institutional accountability when medical professionals cross ethical lines.

Incident and Immediate Aftermath

Dr. Jung allegedly exclaimed, “I hate Charlie Kirk. He had it coming. He deserved it,” upon hearing news of Kirk’s shooting. Kuenzle, stunned, asked how a physician could celebrate any death, then reported the comments to management and on social media after her shift.

  • The following day, hospital administrators summoned Kuenzle, suspended her without pay, and suggested she seek alternative employment.
  • She filed suit September 13, naming the hospital, Jung, and other officials for discrimination and retaliation.

Hospital Investigation and Outcomes

Englewood Health placed both Kuenzle and Jung on suspension pending review “in the interest of everyone’s safety”. On September 15, the hospital announced it had accepted Dr. Jung’s resignation and confirmed that Kuenzle would resume her scheduled shifts without loss of pay.

Broader Implications

Kuenzle’s case has ignited debate over free expression, medical ethics, and workplace protections. GOP activist Scott Presler praised her as one of “Charlie’s Angels,” while healthcare professionals weighed in on the necessity of upholding the Hippocratic Oath irrespective of personal views.

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