Erika Frantzve Breaks Down in First Remarks After Charlie Kirk’s Assassination

On September 12, 2025, Erika Frantzve, the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, delivered her first public remarks since her husband’s assassination at Utah Valley University (UVU) on September 10, 2025. In an emotional address broadcast live from Turning Point USA’s headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona, Erika broke down as she remembered her husband, emphasizing his love for her, their two young children, and his unwavering commitment to America. She issued a powerful message to those responsible for his death, vowing that “the cries of this widow will echo around the world like a battle cry.” Her remarks, delivered hours after the arrest of 22-year-old suspect Tyler Robinson, underscored her resolve to carry forward Charlie Kirk’s legacy of patriotism and faith.

Erika Frantzve’s Emotional Tribute

Erika Frantzve, a former Miss Arizona USA and podcast host, spoke with raw emotion as she addressed supporters and the nation. “Charlie loved life, he loved his life... he loved America, he loved nature which helped him bring closer to God..., but most of all Charlie loved his children, and he loved me with all of his heart,” she said, her voice breaking as she described her husband as the “perfect father and husband.” The couple, married in May 2021, welcomed a daughter in August 2022 and a son in May 2024, and Erika frequently shared glimpses of their family life on social media, highlighting their shared commitment to faith and conservative values.

During her address, Erika reflected on Charlie’s vision for America, recalling his aspiration to “revive the American family” if he ever ran for office. She portrayed him as a man driven by patriotism, faith, and a deep connection to God, qualities that defined his work as the founder of Turning Point USA, a prominent conservative youth organization. Erika’s tearful tribute began with a moment of silence, with the camera framing Charlie’s empty chair, symbolizing his absence but enduring presence in the movement he built.

The Assassination of Charlie Kirk

Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old right-wing activist and close ally of former President Donald Trump, was fatally shot on September 10, 2025, while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The incident occurred during the first stop of Turning Point USA’s “The American Comeback Tour,” a series of college campus engagements. Kirk was approximately 20 minutes into his speech, responding to a question about transgender mass shooters, when a single gunshot struck him in the neck, reportedly fired by a sniper positioned on a nearby rooftop. He was rushed to a hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after.

The shooting, described as a “political assassination” by Utah Governor Spencer Cox and President Trump, sent shockwaves across the United States, reigniting debates about political violence. Witnesses reported chaos at the event, with thousands in attendance scattering as the shot rang out. The FBI, Orem Police, UVU Police, and Utah Department of Public Safety launched a joint investigation, leading to the arrest of Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old Utah man, on September 11, 2025. Authorities believe Robinson acted alone, motivated by his opposition to Kirk’s conservative messages on issues like abortion, gun control, and racism.

Erika’s Defiant Message to the “Evildoers”

In her address, Erika Frantzve issued a powerful warning to those responsible for her husband’s death, whom she referred to as “evildoers.” “They killed Charlie because he preached a message of patriotism, faith, and of God’s merciful love. They should all know this: If you thought that my husband’s mission was powerful before, you have no idea,” she declared. Erika vowed that her husband’s legacy would endure, stating, “The cries of this widow will echo around the world like a battle cry. To everyone listening across America... no one will ever forget my husband’s name, and I will make sure that.” Her words resonated with supporters, who have rallied around her pledge to continue Charlie’s work through Turning Point USA.

Erika’s resolve was further underscored by her commitment to ensure that Charlie’s message of conservatism and family values would not fade. She emphasized that the assassination, far from silencing his mission, had ignited a fire within her and the broader conservative movement. Social media platforms, particularly X, have been abuzz with hashtags like #CharlieKirkLegacy and #ErikaFrantzve, reflecting widespread support for her determination to honor her husband’s memory.

Gratitude to Trump, Vance, and First Responders

Erika expressed heartfelt gratitude to key figures who supported her family in the aftermath of the tragedy. She thanked President Donald Trump and his family, noting, “Mr. President, my husband loved you, and he knew that you loved him too... your friendship is amazing.” Trump, who announced Kirk’s death on social media, called him a “martyr” and a “patriot,” pledging that his legacy would endure. Erika also acknowledged Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha, for their personal involvement, including arranging for Air Force Two to transport Charlie’s body back to Arizona on September 11, 2025. A private ceremony in Salt Lake City saw Vance assist in loading Kirk’s casket onto the plane, a gesture Erika described as deeply moving.

Erika also praised the first responders who attempted to save her husband’s life and the law enforcement agencies that worked tirelessly to apprehend the suspect. “I want to thank local, state, and federal law enforcement who worked tirelessly to capture my husband’s assassin so that he can be brought to justice,” she said. Her gratitude extended to the broader conservative community, including figures like Senator Markwayne Mullin, who called for prayers for Erika and her children.

Tyler Robinson’s Arrest and Motive

The arrest of Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old Utah resident, marked a significant development in the case. According to Utah Governor Spencer Cox, Robinson surrendered to police on September 11, 2025, following a manhunt aided by security camera footage and evidence from his Discord profile. Authorities believe Robinson acted alone, driven by his opposition to Kirk’s outspoken conservative views. Utah state records indicate that Robinson, an inactive voter with no party affiliation, had become “more political” in the lead-up to the shooting, reportedly mentioning Kirk’s UVU event during a family dinner.

The motive, described as rooted in “hate” for Kirk’s messages, highlights the polarized climate surrounding political discourse in the United States. Kirk’s vocal stances on contentious issues, including abortion and gun control, often drew sharp criticism, and his assassination has sparked renewed discussions about the safety of public figures in an era of heightened political tensions. The FBI continues to investigate whether Robinson had any additional connections or influences, with preliminary findings suggesting the act was premeditated.

Charlie Kirk’s Legacy and Turning Point USA

Charlie Kirk, who co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012, was a leading figure in the conservative movement, particularly among young Americans. His organization, headquartered in Phoenix, focused on promoting conservative values on college campuses, advocating for free speech, limited government, and traditional family values. Kirk’s high-profile appearances, including at the Turning Point USA Inaugural-Eve Ball in Washington, D.C., on January 19, 2025, alongside figures like Donald Trump Jr., cemented his influence within the MAGA movement.

Erika, a frequent presence at Charlie’s events, vowed to continue his mission through Turning Point USA. Her background as a real estate agent, philanthropist, and host of the “Midweek Rise Up” podcast, focused on Biblical leadership, positions her as a compelling figure to carry forward his legacy. Social media posts on X have praised Erika’s strength, with trending hashtags like #ErikaFrantzve and #CharlieKirkLegacy reflecting the outpouring of support from conservative communities and beyond.