A prominent and vocal supporter of US President Donald Trump, Charlie Kirk, died on the Utah Valley University campus on Wednesday. Announcing his death on Truth Social, Trump extended his and his wife, Melania’s, wishes to Kirk’s family. Directly blaming the Left for this incident, Trump claimed that it was a “dark moment for America.”
As the manhunt continues for the shooter, FBI Director Kash Patel revealed that the subject of the shooting who was taken into custody, was released after questioning. Appearing visibly distressed, Trump also issued a message earlier today to address the matter. Before taking the bullet, Kirk was addressing the gathering in his signature debate style speech. A silhouette in dark clothing appeared on the roof and took the shot, as per a BBC report. A video of the incident has gone viral on social media, raising concerns among netizens worldwide.
Who is Erika Frantzve?
Wife of Charlie Kirk, Erika Frantzve, married the conservative activist in May 2021 in Arizona. She holds a degree in Political Science and International Relations from Arizona State University, a Juris Master’s degree from Liberty University (2017), and a Doctorate in Christian Leadership, which she earned in 2022.
Frantzve, by profession, is a real estate agent with The Corcoran Group in New York City and is the founder of Everyday Heroes Like You, a non-profit. Kirk’s wife is also known to host an inspirational podcast, Midweek Rise Up, launched in 2019. Deeply involved in the community, Frantzve also runs PROCLAIM Streetwear, a faith-based fashion brand, according to her official website. From her career in New York to China, Frantzve has been a model, casting director, and actress. She is also a former beauty pageant participant and held the title of Miss Arizona USA in 2012, and played collegiate basketball for Regis University in Denver, Colorado.
Charlie and Erika also have two children, Sarah Rose, born in 2022, and a son born in 2024, too. Standing for Christian familial beliefs, the couple has been seen promoting intentional parenting and motherhood.
Political reactions
A notable figure in Trump’s campaign, the incident has spurred several reactions from MAGA leaders. Utah Governor Spencer Cox called his death a “political assassination,” and revealed that the person taken into custody was not George Zinn, the previously suspected individual. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the shooting and called Kirk’s death “heartbreaking” as he was a young father with a marriage of less than five years. US Vice President JD Vance called him a “true friend” and a “great family man”.