Erika Frantzve, the wife of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, made her first public appearance Thursday during a solemn flight aboard Air Force Two, which transported her late husband’s body from Utah to his home state of Arizona.
Kirk was shot and killed on Wednesday following an event at Utah Valley University.
Emotional moment on Air Force Two
Frantzve, 36, was joined by Usha Vance, wife of Vice President JD Vance, as the two deplaned the aircraft together in an emotional display of support.
Both women were dressed in all-black mourning attire and wore dark sunglasses.
As they descended the steps of the plane, Vance placed a comforting arm around Frantzve, who held a rosary tightly in her hand.
At one point, Vance pointed toward the crowd and then gently took Frantzve’s hand, guiding her off the stairway.
Vice President JD Vance followed closely behind, offering a respectful distance as the two women led the solemn procession.
Kirk’s children present on board
Also on board the flight were Kirk’s two young children and his parents who were present at the time of the shooting. Members of the National Guard ceremonially carried Kirk’s mahogany casket on and off the aircraft.
The return to Arizona marked the final journey for Kirk, who rose to national prominence as a conservative political activist and founder of Turning Point USA.
Supporters greet motorcade in Arizona
After landing, the funeral motorcade transported Kirk’s body to Hansen Mortuary Chapel in Phoenix. Along the route, dozens of supporters lined the streets, waving American flags and holding signs in tribute.
From the backseat of an SUV, Frantzve acknowledged the crowd with a tearful wave, still clutching her rosary.
A formal funeral service is scheduled for next week in Arizona. President Donald Trump has confirmed his intention to attend, stating he has personally spoken with Frantzve. “She is devastated, absolutely devastated,” Trump said.
Suspect still at large
The FBI has taken the lead in the investigation into Kirk’s killing and is now asking the public for help in identifying a person of interest captured in surveillance footage.
The shooting occurred midday as Kirk was engaging with audience members following a speech at Utah Valley University.
Kirk was responding to a question related to gun violence when a single shot was fired, striking him in the neck.
He collapsed on stage as chaos erupted in the auditorium. First responders transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Authorities have released images of the ‘person of interest’ and announced a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to their identification or arrest.
“We are asking for the public’s help identifying this person of interest in connection with the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University,” the FBI said in a statement.