Utah Valley University – Erika Kirk, wife of late political commentator and Turning Point USA CEO Charlie Kirk, broke her silence following her husband’s tragic murder during a speaking event on Wednesday, Sept. 10. Speaking at a press conference two days later, Erika expressed her deep grief and gratitude to supporters and law enforcement after what she described as a life-shattering event.
Tragic Events at UVU
Charlie Kirk, 30, was fatally shot while delivering remarks as part of his American Comeback Tour at Utah Valley University. Authorities say the gunman, Tyler Robinson, 22, opened fire from the roof of a student services building, approximately 200 yards from the event, targeting Kirk as he spoke to a live audience.
Despite the chaos, no one else was injured. Investigators have since confirmed that Kirk was the sole target.
Erika Kirk: “My Husband Laid Down His Life”
In her emotional address, Erika Kirk, 36, spoke through tears as she remembered her husband as a devoted father, a patriot, and a man of deep faith.
“Charlie always said that when he was gone, he wanted to be remembered for his courage and for his faith,” she shared.
She recalled how Kirk’s greatest love was for his family — especially their two young children.
“Most of all, Charlie loved his children, and he loved me with all of his heart. My husband laid down his life for me, for our nation, for our children.”
Erika revealed that Charlie’s “American Comeback Tour” will continue in his honor this fall.
A Mother’s Pain and a Child’s Question
Erika also shared the heartbreaking moment when she had to explain to their 3-year-old daughter that her father wasn’t coming home.
“She asked me, ‘Where’s Daddy?’” Erika said. “I said, ‘Baby, Daddy loves you so much. Don’t you worry. He’s on a work trip with Jesus, so he can afford your blueberry budget.’”
The couple, married since May 2021, recently celebrated their daughter’s 3rd birthday and welcomed a son in May 2024 — just weeks before Charlie’s death.
Investigation and Charges
Tyler Robinson, the alleged shooter, is in custody and is expected to face formal charges on Tuesday, Sept. 16, including:
Aggravated murder
Felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury
Obstruction of justice
According to a probable cause affidavit, Robinson fired in a way that “put many around [Kirk] at grave risk of death.” The motive, investigators believe, stems from political hatred. Utah Governor Spencer Cox said the suspect’s own family helped authorities by coming forward after Robinson reportedly confessed to the shooting.
“They talked about why they didn’t like [Kirk] and the viewpoints that he had,” Cox said. “The suspect said Kirk was full of hate and spreading hate.”
Prosecutors may pursue the death penalty, which is allowed under Utah law in aggravated murder cases. If convicted and sentenced to death, Robinson could face lethal injection or a firing squad if the required drugs are unavailable.
Remembering Charlie Kirk
Former Turning Point USA official Matt Lamb remembered Kirk as a loving husband and father:
“He loved his wife and loved his kids. You could just tell by the way he talked about them. His legacy will live on through that.”
Erika concluded her message with a heartfelt thank you to law enforcement, Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha, President Donald Trump, and the many supporters who connected with her husband’s work.
“Thank you all again, who loved my husband, who supported him, who wrote him an email every single day during his radio show — he read all of them. God bless you all. And God bless America.”
About Charlie and Erika Kirk
| Name | Charlie Kirk |
|---|---|
| Age | 30 |
| Spouse | Erika Kirk (m. 2021) |
| Children | Daughter (b. 2021), Son (b. 2024) |
| Role | CEO of Turning Point USA |
| Date of Death | September 10, 2025 |
| Cause of Death | Gunshot wound |
| Location | Utah Valley University, Orem, UT |
