President Donald Trump Speaks on Charlie Kirk's Wife, Says She's 'Devastated'

The killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk has shaken the political landscape, drawing responses from the highest levels of government. President Donald Trump and Kirk's wife, Erika, have both spoken publicly, offering grief-stricken reactions while calling for peace.

President Donald Trump addressed the nation following the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, saying he had spoken with Kirk's wife, Erika.

Kirk, 31, founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, was fatally shot on Sept. 10 while delivering remarks at Utah Valley University. The appearance marked the opening stop of his group's fall campus tour, The American Comeback Tour.

Speaking about Kirk's legacy, President Trump praised him as a consistent advocate of peace. "He was an advocate of nonviolence — that's the way I'd like to see people respond," the president said. He added that his wife, Erika, is "absolutely devastated" by the loss.

Erika Kirk's First Public Statement

On September 12, 2025, Erika delivered her first public remarks since her husband's killing. With tears in her eyes, she thanked first responders who attempted to save Kirk's life and the police officers who acted quickly to prevent further harm.

"You have no idea the fire you have ignited within this wife," she said. "The cries of this widow will echo around the world like a battle cry." She vowed to carry forward her husband's work at Turning Point USA, the organization he built into a leading conservative presence on college campuses.

The Kirks were raising two young children together — a daughter who turned three in August and a son who celebrated his first birthday in May.

Arrest of Tyler Robinson

Authorities have charged 27-year-old Tyler Robinson in connection with Kirk's death. Robinson was captured after a 33-hour manhunt that ended when his father persuaded him to surrender peacefully.

According to Utah County Sheriff's Office records, Robinson faces charges including aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm. Prosecutors are expected to bring formal charges on Tuesday.

Charlie Kirk was a nationally recognized conservative commentator and activist. Through Turning Point USA, he worked to engage young conservatives on campuses across the United States.

At the time of his death, he was speaking to students at Utah Valley University when the shooting occurred. His killing has sent shockwaves through political circles, with tributes pouring in from allies and supporters who credit him with shaping a new generation of conservative activists.