Overview

• Allen wrote that he was “deeply affected” and, after more than 60 years, now forgives the drunk driver who killed his father in 1964 when he was 11.
• At the Sept. 21 service at State Farm Stadium, Erika Kirk said of the accused shooter, “That man, that young man … I forgive him,” before a large crowd that included President Donald Trump.
• Charlie Kirk was shot Sept. 10 at a Utah Valley University event; 22-year-old Tyler Robinson is jailed on multiple counts including aggravated murder, and prosecutors have said they intend to seek the death penalty.
• Coverage has reported that Erika Kirk is taking on leadership of Turning Point USA following her husband’s death.
• Allen’s public statement underscores how Erika Kirk’s faith-centered call to forgive is resonating beyond politics across media and cultural circles.