Erika Kirk Breaks Silence on Charlie Kirk’s Murder, Shares Heartbreaking Words to Their 3-Year-Old Daughter
In the days following the shocking murder of Charlie Kirk, conservative commentator and co-founder of Turning Point USA, his widow Erika Kirk has spoken publicly for the first time. During a press conference on September 12, Erika shared an emotional tribute to her late husband and revealed how she explained his death to their 3-year-old daughter.
The Tragic Shooting at Utah Valley University
Charlie Kirk was fatally shot on September 10 while speaking during a Q&A session at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Authorities allege that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson fired a shot from the roof of a nearby student services building, striking Kirk in the neck. Despite being rushed to the hospital, the 31-year-old commentator later died from his injuries.
Robinson was later arrested and is currently facing multiple charges, including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, and obstruction of justice. Utah prosecutors confirmed that the death penalty could be pursued, depending on the evidence presented in court. His arraignment is scheduled for September 16.
Erika Kirk’s First Public Statement
Standing before cameras and supporters, Erika Kirk, 36, expressed gratitude to law enforcement, state officials, and close family friends—including Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha Vance—for standing beside her in the aftermath of the tragedy. She also thanked former President Donald Trump, who praised Charlie as a “great and legendary” leader and expressed sympathy to the grieving family.
“Charlie always said that when he was gone, he wanted to be remembered for his courage and his faith,” Erika said. “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.”
A Mother’s Pain: Explaining Loss to Her Daughter
Perhaps the most heartbreaking moment came when Erika described telling their young daughter about her father’s death.
“What do you tell a three-year-old? She’s three,” Erika explained. “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.’”
Her words quickly went viral online, with supporters describing the statement as both heartbreaking and deeply moving.
A Marriage and Family Rooted in Faith
Erika and Charlie met in 2018, got engaged in December 2020, and married in May 2021 in an intimate Arizona ceremony. The couple went on to welcome two children—a daughter in August 2022 and a son in May 2024. Just weeks before the tragedy, they celebrated their daughter’s third birthday together.
Charlie Kirk’s colleagues remembered him not only as a political leader but also as a devoted family man. Matt Lamb, a former Turning Point USA official, said, “He loved his wife and loved his kids. You could just tell by the way he talked about them. His most important legacy will always be in his family.”
Remembering Charlie Kirk’s Legacy
Charlie Kirk founded Turning Point USA in 2012 and quickly rose to prominence as one of the most influential voices in American conservatism. His “American Comeback Tour” drew large crowds on college campuses nationwide, aiming to mobilize young voters.
Despite his sudden death, Erika confirmed that the American Comeback Tour will continue in the fall, as a way to honor his mission and vision.
The Ongoing Investigation
Utah Governor Spencer Cox revealed that Robinson’s arrest came after a family member reached out to authorities, claiming the suspect had confessed during a dinner conversation. Cox credited the Robinson family for “doing the right thing” and assisting investigators.
Court documents also allege that Robinson expressed dislike for Kirk’s viewpoints, describing the conservative leader as “full of hate and spreading hate.”
If convicted, Robinson could face execution either by lethal injection or, if drugs are unavailable, firing squad—a method still authorized under Utah law.
Conclusion
As the nation continues to mourn the loss of Charlie Kirk, Erika’s words serve as both a tribute to her husband’s legacy and a reminder of the personal cost of political violence. Her strength in speaking publicly—while raising two young children—has resonated deeply with supporters and faith communities across the country.
Charlie Kirk’s influence as a political activist and commentator will endure, but as Erika movingly expressed, his greatest legacy lives on through his family.