Thousands, including Donald Trump and other U.S. leaders, honored slain activist Charlie Kirk in Arizona as his widow publicly forgave the accused killer
Tens of thousands gathered Sunday at State Farm Stadium to honor conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot on September 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University.
President Donald Trump headlined the memorial, joined by Vice-President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The high-profile attendees paid tribute to Kirk’s political influence and personal dedication.
Before Trump’s address, Erika Kirk, the widow of the 31-year-old, moved the crowd by declaring forgiveness for the accused gunman. “I have forgiven the man accused of killing my husband,” she said, drawing a prolonged standing ovation.
The memorial featured prayers, moments of silence, and a symbolic handshake between Trump and entrepreneur Elon Musk, underscoring Kirk’s broad support within conservative and tech circles.
Local authorities maintained tight security as mourners waved American flags and chanted Kirk’s name, reflecting the deep impact of his sudden death on supporters nationwide.