Charlie Kirk memorial updates: 'I forgive him,' Erika Kirk says of alleged shooter

President Trump called Kirk "immortal" and speakers called him a "martyr."

Last Updated: September 21, 2025, 7:22 PM EDT

Charlie Kirk was remembered as a "martyr" and "warrior" by some of the leading lights of the conservative movement, the Trump administration, friends as well as his grieving widow during a packed memorial service in Arizona Sunday.

As President Trump and others noted, the service felt more like a "revival" rather than a memorial, and Kirk's connection to and efforts for his Christian faith were on full display throughout. Kirk was recalled for the movement among young conservatives that he helped spark, his willingness to debate and his fearlessness in the face of threats.

In a poignant moment, Kirk's widow, Erika said that she forgives her husband's alleged assassin.

Kirk, 31, founded Turning Point USA at age 18 and rose to become one of the most prominent conservative voices in the country. His influence, particularly with young people, helped propel Trump to office. But some of his comments on gun violence, LGBTQ issues, race and more often drew criticism from liberals and others.

Key Headlines

Here's how the news is developing.
Sep 21, 2025, 3:07 PM EDT

Charlie Kirk will receive honorary college degree, Hillsdale College president says

While speaking at Charlie Kirk's memorial, Hillsdale College President Dr. Larry Arn said that the conservative activist, who took classes at the Michigan college, will receive an honorary degree from the school.

President of Hillsdale College Larry P. Arnn speaks during the public memorial service for right-wing activist in Glendale, Arizona, September 21, 2025.
Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images

He said Kirk "can't be replaced" and that he "deserves this reward."

Kirk has talked openly about never graduating college, and wrote a book titled "The College Scam" criticizing higher education.

Arn also announced Kirk's children, a son who turned 1 in May and a daughter who turned 3 in August, will receive college scholarships.

Sep 21, 2025, 3:00 PM EDT

Air Force One lands in Arizona

President Trump has arrived in Arizona for Charlie Kirk's memorial service. Air Force One landed moments ago at Luke Air Force Base, located just miles from State Farm Stadium. According to pool reporters traveling with the president, cabin televisions were playing footage from inside the stadium during the flight.

President Donald Trump steps off Air Force One upon arrival at Luke Air Force Base in Glendale, Arizona, September 21, 2025 to attend the memorial for right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.
Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images
Sep 21, 2025, 2:43 PM EDT

Elon Musk says he's 'honored' to be at Kirk's memorial

Along with top officials in government, many of the biggest names in MAGA politics and media are present at Charlie Kirk's memorial, including billionaire Elon Musk.

In a Post on X, Musk showed the thousands packed in State Farm Stadium to honor Kirk.

Elon Musk arrives for a memorial service for slain conservative commentator Charlie Kirk in Glendale, Arizona, September 21, 2025.
Daniel Cole/Reuters

"Every seat in this giant arena that isn't roped off for security is packed to the ceiling. Honored to be here," Musk wrote.

Musk added that all the attendees are "all for Charlie Kirk."

Musk and Kirk worked closely together, including during the 2024 presidential campaign.

-ABC News' Will Steakin

Sep 21, 2025, 2:41 PM EDT

Kirk family pastor speaks on Charlie's legacy

Pastor Rob McCoy, the Kirk family pastor, was the first speaker for Sunday's service. He said Kirk "had more lifetimes in 31 years than a lot of us had in the entirety of our own."

Pastor Rob McCoy says conservative activist Charlie Kirk referred to him as "America's pastor."
10:42
Charlie Kirk's pastor calls late activist 'my friend'Pastor Rob McCoy says conservative activist Charlie Kirk referred to him as "America's pastor."
ABCNews.com

He also said he spoke with several members of the Turning Point USA staff before stepping on stage, some of whom he said were worried they would be unsuccessful without Kirk.

"Without Charlie Kirk's presence, they pulled off the largest event in Turning Point history. Let's thank them," McCoy said, prompting a large round of applause.

According to local officials, Turning Point had more than 200,000 people register for the memorial service on their website.

"Turning Point is alive and well," McCoy said.

Pastor Rob McCoy speaks at a memorial for conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Sept. 21, 2025, in Glendale, Ariz.
John Locher/AP

Related Topics

Sponsored Content by Taboola