The body of conservative activist Charlie Kirk was flown on Thursday aboard Air Force Two from Utah to his home state of Arizona, a gesture highlighting the influence he held within America’s political right wing. Vice President JD Vance personally assisted in carrying Kirk’s casket, reflecting their close ties.
The 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, who was shot dead on Wednesday at Utah Valley University, was transported from Salt Lake City to Phoenix. The vice-presidential aircraft landed shortly before 5 p.m. local time.
Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, was seen holding hands with Usha Vance, the Second Lady, as they stepped off the plane with the casket. Family members and close friends accompanied the body, with officials confirming that some travelled alongside the vice president and his wife.
Vance pays tribute to a friend
Earlier in Salt Lake City, Vice President Vance was filmed helping carry Kirk’s casket onto the plane. Tyler Bower, a long-time associate of Kirk at Turning Point USA, shared the footage on social media.
Vance later recalled his personal and professional friendship with the late activist, noting that Kirk had strongly advocated for him to be chosen as Donald Trump’s running mate in 2024. “So much of the success we’ve had in this administration traces directly to Charlie’s ability to organise and convene,” Vance wrote, adding that Kirk not only helped the campaign secure victory but also played a pivotal role in staffing the Trump administration.
I am in tears. Vice President JD Vance is carrying Charlie Kirk bringing him home on Air Force Two
— MAGA Voice (@MAGAVoice) September 11, 2025
Charlie Kirk is a true hero to America
I will never forget this 🙏 pic.twitter.com/NwE05wmcq9
What happened in Utah?
Kirk was gunned down on 10 September while speaking at an outdoor “Prove Me Wrong” debate at Utah Valley University. Authorities confirmed that his body was moved from the hospital to the state medical examiner’s office later that evening.
A suspect described as a “person of interest” was quickly taken into custody, though the motive for the attack remains unclear. Officials have said that the investigation is ongoing, and the killing has provoked widespread grief and anger across the conservative movement.
Kirk is survived by his wife and two young children. Known for his combative style and ability to mobilise young conservatives, he built Turning Point USA into a significant platform within Republican politics.
Tributes have poured in since his death, with supporters hailing him as one of the most influential organisers of the Trump era.
