Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, vowed she will “never let his legacy die” in a tearful address following his assassination. 

In her first public remarks since her husband’s death, Mrs Kirk stood in the same room where Charlie always recorded his podcast and radio show, and did what he loved most – reaching out to young people and sharing his passion for conservatism.

It was a speech that leaned heavily on her late husband’s faith, couching his activism – and ultimately his death – as part of a “spiritual battle” for America.

“Charlie always said that when he was gone, he wanted to be remembered for his courage and for his faith.

“Now and for all eternity, he will stand at his Saviour’s side, wearing the glorious crown of a martyr,” she said, her expression hardening.

Mr Kirk, 31, was gunned down on Wednesday during a speaking event at Utah Valley University, which was part of a campus tour where he debated with students and invited them to “prove him wrong”.

The suspected gunman, Tyler Robinson, was arrested on Thursday night after his father turned him in to police, following a two-day manhunt. 

He is expected to be charged with murder and Donald Trump has called for the death penalty for the 22-year-old.