Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, has been returned to his home state of Arizona following his assassination during a speech at Utah Valley University on September 10. Kirk was shot in broad daylight while addressing students, an act that shocked the nation and spurred a massive federal investigation. The FBI has since released surveillance footage of a person of interest fleeing a rooftop shortly after the shooting, asking the public for assistance in identifying the suspect.

While law enforcement continues to follow leads, Kirk’s family, friends, and supporters are coming to terms with the devastating loss. Among them is Vice President JD Vance, who had a close personal relationship with Kirk and credited him with helping launch his political career. As a gesture of respect and friendship, Vance arranged for Kirk’s remains to be flown home aboard Air Force Two from Salt Lake City to Phoenix.

A somber video posted by Kirk’s colleague, Tyler Bower, showed Vice President Vance helping carry Kirk’s casket onto the aircraft. The moment underscored the deeply personal grief felt by many in Kirk’s circle and added a symbolic weight to his return. Kirk’s death, viewed by many as a politically motivated attack, has heightened national concern about escalating political violence.

When Air Force Two landed in Phoenix shortly before 5 p.m., an emotional tribute was broadcast over the control tower’s frequency: “Welcome home, Charlie. You didn’t deserve it. May God bless your family.” The simple yet poignant message quickly went viral online, resonating with thousands of Americans grieving Kirk’s loss and reflecting the emotional magnitude of the event.

Kirk’s wife, Erika, 36, arrived hand-in-hand with Second Lady Usha Vance, her eyes lowered and fingers wrapped around a rosary. Their two children and Kirk’s parents were also present for the dignified transfer. National Guard members escorted the flag-draped mahogany casket to Hansen Mortuary Chapel in Phoenix, as supporters gathered quietly nearby to pay respects.

A private funeral service is scheduled for next week, with former President Donald Trump expected to attend. Trump, calling Kirk a “martyr for truth,” announced plans to posthumously award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom — a final tribute to a young political figure whose life and impact left a lasting mark on the conservative movement.