Charlie Kirk assassination attempt: Widow addresses perpetrator in emotional statement

Orem. In her first public statement since the death of ultra-conservative activist Charlie Kirk, his widow, Erika Kirk, addressed the perpetrator directly. "You have no idea what you just unleashed on this entire country," she said in a highly emotional statement broadcast by the YouTube channel Turning Point USA. Her husband's movement will not only survive, but "will be bigger than ever."

Kirk was shot dead Wednesday on the campus of Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The 31-year-old had been speaking there as a guest speaker. Late Thursday evening (local time), a 22-year-old suspect was arrested; no confession or motive from the man has yet been revealed.

Kirk was an influential representative of US President Donald Trump's "Make America Great Again" (MAGA) movement and a fervent supporter of the Republican. Millions followed his social media channels and podcasts. He had two children with Erika Kirk.

His widow said, "Charlie, I promise you that I will never let your legacy die." In her statement, which lasted just over fifteen minutes, she added, "I promise you that I will make Turning Point USA the greatest organization this country has ever seen."

Charlie Kirk aimed his messages at a younger audience and founded the youth activist organization Turning Point USA in 2012, which is active at many high schools and colleges. He planned to appear at many more campuses in the coming weeks – under the motto "American Comeback."

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Erika Kirk said the planned university tour will continue. "There will be more tours in the coming years," she said. Turning Point USA's annual conference will also continue in Phoenix, Arizona, in December. The podcast show will also continue.

She also addressed US President Donald Trump, saying in a tearful voice: "My husband loved you, and he knew you loved him back. He really did. Your friendship was incredible. You supported him so well, just as he supported you."

She also thanked Vice President J.D. Vance and his wife, Usha. "You honored my husband so much by bringing him home. You're both amazing," she said.

RND/dpa