Elon Musk on why Charlie Kirk was killed: ‘because he showed people…’

The memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk saw prominent figures, including President Donald Trump and tech mogul Elon Musk, pay their respects and offer tribute to the 31-year-old firebrand. Kirk, a pivotal figure in Trump’s circle, was hailed as a “martyr for America's freedom” during the service. Musk, on his part, said that he was killed because he made a difference.

“He was killed because his words made a difference,” Musk said, when asked why he thinks Kirk was assassinated.

“Because he was showing people light. And he was killed by the dark,” Musk added.

Memorial service for Charlie Kirk in Arizona

The memorial service for Charlie Kirk in Arizona brought together tens of thousands of mourners, including Vice President JD Vance and senior administration leaders. It served as a powerful display of unity. Amid the solemnity, there were moments of levity, such as when Donald Trump shared a gentle sway and lip-synced with a teary-eyed Erika Kirk, the activist's widow.

Donald Trump, in his tribute, underscored Kirk's significance, calling him a "key force" behind his 2024 presidential victory.

“He's a martyr now for America's freedom," Trump said.

“I know I speak for everyone here today when I say that none of us will ever forget Charlie. And neither now will history,” he said. Previously, Trump said that Kirk was the one who asked him to be on TikTok during his Presidential campaign last year.

Meanwhile, Erika Kirk, addressing the crowd, shared a message of forgiveness for the man accused of killing her husband.

“My husband, Charlie, he wanted to save young men, just like the one who took his life. I forgive him,” she said

Authorities have charged 22-year-old Tyler Robinson from Utah with the killing. While a motive has not been officially confirmed, prosecutors have noted a text message Robinson reportedly sent to his partner after the shooting, stating he had "enough" of Kirk's "hatred."