In the days since Charlie Kirk was assassinated at Utah Valley University, tributes have poured in from allies and rivals alike. But one of the most striking came from CNN’s Van Jones, who revealed that just 24 hours before his death, Kirk had privately invited him to have a “respectful conversation” on his show.

Jones explained that he and Kirk had been sparring on TV and online over a racially charged murder case. Their heated back-and-forth sparked a flood of online threats against Jones. But instead of doubling down, Kirk extended an olive branch.

“Hey, Van, I mean it, I’d love to have you on my show to have a respectful conversation about crime and race,” Kirk wrote. “I would be a gentleman as I know you would be as well. We can disagree about the issues agreeably.”

Jones never got the chance to respond. The next day, Kirk, 31, was fatally shot in the neck while speaking at a debate at Utah Valley University, collapsing as students fled the courtyard.