Riley Gaines says Erika Kirk shared 'greatest fear' of husband Charlie getting killed before Utah shooting

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Former collegiate swimmer turned activist Riley Gaines has revealed that Erika Kirk, wife of slain conservative leader Charlie Kirk, feared her husband would be targeted before his fatal shooting at Utah Valley University.

Gaines, a close friend of the Kirk family, spoke publicly about Erika’s fears as tributes poured in for the 31-year-old father of two.

Riley Gaines recalls Erika Kirk’s fears before shooting

In a podcast appearance on Outkick, Gaines said she lost “a friend and a mentor” and described Erika as “one of the most kind and compassionate women you can possibly imagine.”

Gaines added, “This was her greatest fear. I mean, we had talked about it. This was her greatest fear. I won’t go into the details there. Two children lost their father. They will be haunted forever by the videos that can’t be scrubbed from social media.”

Gaines credited Kirk’s leadership of Turning Point for energizing conservative youth. “I truthfully believe that his impact alone as one person, and what he’s been able to do through Turning Point, is transform a nation, revive a culture—a culture of young people, people just like me,” she said.

Gaines also posted on X, "I prayed through the night for this God-fearing, beautiful woman & their children. As a wife and someone who is due to bring a life into this world any day now, I simply can't fathom being in her shoes. Erika, we weep with you. We mourn with you. We pray with you. We love you."

Erika Kirk’s emotional public statements

Erika Kirk has spoken openly about her grief and faith since the killing. “Two days ago, my husband went to see the face of his Savior and his God... Now, and for all eternity, he will stand at his Savior's side wearing the glorious crown of a martyr,” Erika said in a social media message.

During a livestream on Friday, she told supporters: “In a world filled with chaos, doubt and uncertainty, my husband’s voice will remain, and it will ring out louder and more clearly than ever, and his wisdom will endure.”

Authorities arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson after a 33-hour manhunt. Police said family and friends of the Utah native helped turn him in. Investigators also revealed they found “bizarre” messages inscribed on bullets linked to the murder weapon.