Erika Kirk Shared Bible Verse Hours Before Husband Charlie Kirk Was Killed
Just hours before her husband’s assassination, Erika Kirk (née Frantzve) posted a haunting message to her X account. Quoting Psalm 46:1, she wrote: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Her husband, Charlie Kirk — conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA — was fatally shot on Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University. He was 31 years old. Kirk leaves behind Erika and their two young children: a three-year-old daughter and a 16-month-old son.
A Family in Mourning
The couple, who celebrated their fourth wedding anniversary in May, wed in May 2021 in an intimate ceremony in Arizona. According to Erika, there were no bridesmaids or groomsmen, and she opted against a bachelorette party.
On social media, she often reflected on marriage and faith. In one 2023 post she reminded newly engaged couples: “It’s one day… but it’s the days afterward that matter more. Don’t stress over the flowers or linens. Weddings can turn people crazy — let it go.”
Erika Kirk: Faith, Family & Ministry
Erika Frantzve, crowned Miss Arizona USA in 2012, described her upbringing as rooted in a tight-knit Catholic family. She later attended Arizona State University, earning degrees in political science and international relations.
More recently, she founded BIBLEin365, a ministry program designed to help individuals engage with scripture daily. On her website, her biography reads:
“Above all, Erika cherishes her role as the wife of Charlie Kirk and the mother of their precious son and daughter. As she continues to grow in her ministry, leadership, and entrepreneurial endeavors, Erika remains committed to inspiring others to live with purpose, rooted in faith, and driven by the love of Christ in every aspect of life.”
Just weeks before the tragedy, the Kirk family appeared on Fox & Friends, where their daughter was seen running across the studio floor to her father — a moment that now resonates with heartbreaking poignancy.
The Shooting
Charlie Kirk was shot in the neck during a Q&A session at Utah Valley University. Videos circulating online showed him collapsing as the crowd screamed. He was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
Former President Donald Trump confirmed the news on Truth Social:
“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie… Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”
Investigation
University officials said the fatal shot came from the top of the Losee Center, roughly 200 feet from where Kirk was seated.
Initial reports said police detained an elderly man, though he was quickly released. Later that evening, Utah Governor Spencer Cox announced that a “person of interest” was in custody. However, FBI Director Kash Patel later confirmed that individual had also been released after questioning.
“Our investigation continues and we will continue to release information in interest of transparency,” Patel said in a statement.
