Country singer Morgan Wallen paused during a Sept. 12 concert in Edmonton, Alberta, to tell the crowd he and his family were praying for Erika Kirk after the assassination of her husband, conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Wallen, who was performing on his "I'm The Problem" tour, told the audience he would not speak at length but wanted to dedicate a song to the family. He introduced his hit "I’m A Little Crazy" by saying, "I just wanted to let Erika Kirk know that me and my family are sending prayers her way," and urged the audience to join him as he sang. Video of the moment was shared on Instagram and drew comments from fans noting the emotion in his performance.
The remarks came two days after Charlie Kirk, founder of the conservative group Turning Point USA, was fatally shot during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University in Orem on Sept. 10. Kirk was 31. Authorities arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson on suspicion of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily harm, and obstruction of justice, according to court documents. A judge ordered Robinson held without bail and formal charges were expected to be filed in the following week.
On Sept. 12, Erika Kirk made her first public statement since her husband's death in a video posted by Turning Point USA. In the video, she described Charlie Kirk as someone who "loved life" and "loved America," and spoke about his devotion to his children and to her, saying he routinely asked how he could be a better husband and father.
President Donald Trump announced on a live broadcast of "Fox & Friends" Friday morning that an arrest had been made in Kirk's killing. Authorities have provided limited public comment as the investigation continues and court proceedings proceed.
Wallen's brief dedication echoed a series of public responses from figures in politics and media since the shooting. Fans at the Edmonton show reacted online to the singer's emotional delivery of the song, with social media commenters describing the performance as heartfelt and noting the evident intensity in his voice.
The investigation into the killing remains active. Court filings list the charges against the suspect and prosecutors have indicated formal charging decisions and additional court dates will follow as the inquiry advances.
