PHOENIX — Erika Kirk, the widow of political activist Charlie Kirk, addressed the public for the first time since her husband's murder. Her speech followed the arrest of Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old man from Utah, who has been charged with the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

Erika Kirk spoke on Friday, standing beside an empty chair that symbolized her late husband during his broadcasts. She began her remarks with a prayer and expressed gratitude to the staff of Charlie Kirk's show, law enforcement, and first responders.

"The evildoers responsible for my husband's assassination have no idea what they have done," Erika Kirk stated. "If you thought that my husband's mission was powerful before, you have no idea. You have no idea what you have just unleashed across this entire country."

Charlie Kirk was killed in Utah on Wednesday. Erika Kirk emphasized that his legacy would continue. "Now and for all eternity, he will stand at his savior's side wearing the glorious crown of a martyr," she said. She also announced that the college tour her husband was conducting at the time of his death would proceed, and the upcoming AmericaFest in Phoenix would be "greater than ever."

The arrest of Tyler Robinson was confirmed by Utah Governor Spencer Cox, who noted that Robinson had become increasingly political leading up to the shooting. During a family dinner, he had mentioned that Charlie Kirk would be visiting Utah.

Governor Cox provided details about the investigation, including engravings on bullet casings found at the scene and messages from a chat app that were shared with law enforcement by a roommate of the suspect. He credited Robinson's family for their role in bringing him to authorities.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we got him," Cox said, referencing the arrest, which was initially announced by former President Donald Trump on a news program.

This story is still developing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.