In a deeply personal and emotional podcast episode released by Christian apologist and author Frank Turek, he recounts the harrowing final moments of Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, as he was tragically assassinated at Utah Valley University. The event, which took place on September 10, unfolded in a public setting where Kirk was engaged with supporters, sharing his vision for a new generation of political leadership grounded in Christian principles. Turek, who was present at the scene and had a long-standing mentorship relationship with Kirk, described the incident with a mix of sorrow and spiritual resolve.
As they prepared to speak at the university, Turek and Kirk’s security team were discussing potential questions from students, fine-tuning their answers on topics including social issues and the role of faith in public life. Turek noted the concerns about the safety of the location, mentioning the presence of nearby buildings that could pose risks. However, Kirk, known for his confidence in his private security detail and the local police, seemed unfazed by these concerns. The conversation was cut short when Turek heard the sound of a single gunshot, and he watched in horror as Kirk collapsed.
Recounting the moments with emotional intensity, Turek described his initial reaction, calling out, ‘No, no, no, no, no,’ before rushing to the scene. He and the security team quickly loaded Kirk into an SUV, performing CPR and praying as they raced to the nearest hospital. The journey was marked by the urgency of the situation, with the door left open as they traveled the four miles to the hospital. Turek described the desperation of the moment, emphasizing the physical and emotional toll of the effort to save Kirk’s life.
Upon arrival at the hospital, Turek said that the medical team attempted to resuscitate Kirk, but ultimately pronounced him dead within half an hour. He described the moment as peaceful, noting that Kirk’s eyes were fixed, and that he ‘was with Jesus already,’ offering a spiritual interpretation of the tragedy. Turek highlighted that Kirk had no pain, which brought some comfort at a time of immense grief. He also explained that Kirk had shared with him a Bible verse the day before, 1 Corinthians 16:9, which speaks about a ‘wide door for effective work has opened up to me, and there are many adversaries.’ Turek interpreted this as a reflection of Kirk’s unwavering faith in the face of adversity.
The aftermath of the tragedy brought a wave of national attention and support, particularly from those who admired Kirk’s work in Christian apologetics and political activism. His wife, Erika, expressed a commitment to continue his legacy, vowing to honor his contributions and uphold his vision for the country. Meanwhile, Turek described his own emotional responses, including the heart-wrenching moment when he retrieved the cross necklace that had been lost during the rush to save Kirk. The necklace, which Erika later held in a poignant photo at a chapel in Arizona, became a powerful symbol of Kirk’s faith and the impact of his life.
As the podcast episode concludes, Turek reflects on the profound legacy of Kirk, emphasizing his fearless leadership, devotion to family, and commitment to Christian values. He also addresses critics who have misinterpreted some of Kirk’s more controversial remarks, asserting that they have ‘twisted’ his message. Turek’s deep personal connection to Kirk shines through in every account of the tragedy, underscoring the deep loss felt by a mentor and a friend. The episode serves as both a tribute to Kirk’s life and a testament to the enduring impact of his beliefs and the people who followed him.