Conservative activist Charlie Kirk will be laid to rest in Phoenix, Arizona, though the exact funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. President Donald Trump said he plans to attend the service. He had earlier announced that Kirk would be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, as per NBC.
Kirk, 31, was assassinated on Wednesday, September 10, during an event he was hosting at Utah Valley University in Orem, just north of Provo. Authorities said a suspect named Tyler Robinson was arrested after a family member recognized him from FBI photos and turned him in.
Charlie Kirk’s final journey to Arizona
On Thursday, Kirk’s body was transported to a Phoenix funeral home. His casket arrived aboard Air Force Two, the plane reserved for the vice president. Vice President JD Vance, Second Lady Usha Vance, and members of Kirk’s family, including his wife Erika, escorted the casket.
Trump, who had ordered flags lowered to half-staff, earlier described Kirk as a close ally and friend. “He wanted to help young people, and he didn’t deserve this,” the president said Friday.
{{/usCountry}}Trump, who had ordered flags lowered to half-staff, earlier described Kirk as a close ally and friend. “He wanted to help young people, and he didn’t deserve this,” the president said Friday.
{{/usCountry}}Also Read: 'Tyler, is this you?': How a father's question revealed Charlie Kirk's shooting suspect
Inside Charlie Kirk's life
Born in suburban Chicago, Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA at age 18 with Tea Party activist William Montgomery. The group, based in Arizona, focused on promoting low taxes and limited government to young voters.
Kirk later became a well-known podcaster and strategist, leading Republican efforts to expand turnout in the 2024 election by reaching out to Trump supporters who rarely voted. He also served as a personal aide to Donald Trump Jr. during the campaign.
Funeral services are expected to take place in Phoenix in the coming days. Details on the time and location have not yet been made public.
FAQs
Q1: When is Charlie Kirk’s funeral?
The service is expected soon in Phoenix, but the exact date and location have not yet been announced.
Q2: Will President Trump attend the funeral?
Yes. Trump has confirmed he will be there and will also award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Q3: Where will the funeral take place?
It will be held in Phoenix, Arizona, where Kirk lived and where Turning Point USA is based.