Mother’s Concerns Led to Arrest in Charlie Kirk Shooting, Prosecutor Reveals
Details surrounding the shooting death of Charlie Kirk have come into sharper focus following a press conference by Utah County prosecutor Chad Grunander, revealing a crucial role played by the suspect’s mother in his apprehension. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, was arrested on September 12th, two days after the shooting, but not through solely through FBI detective work as previously suggested by FBI director Kash Patel.
According to Grunander, Robinson’s mother contacted investigators after recognizing her son in news photographs of the shooter.She recounted a growing disconnect with her son over the past year, noting his increasing political radicalization and shift towards more liberal views, notably regarding LGBTQ+ rights – a divergence from the family’s conservative beliefs.
the prosecutor detailed how, on the day following the shooting, Robinson’s mother noticed the resemblance between the suspect pictured in the news and her son. She questioned Robinson about his whereabouts, and he claimed to have been home sick both on the day of the shooting, September 10th, and the day after. This prompted concern from both parents, who agreed the suspect bore a striking similarity to the individual in the photographs.
Robinson’s mother further explained that her son had begun dating his roommate, a biological male undergoing gender transition, leading to frequent discussions – and disagreements – with his father, who holds markedly different political views. Prior to the shooting, Robinson reportedly dismissed a Charlie Kirk event at Utah Valley University (UVU) as a “stupid venue,” and accused Kirk of “spreading hate.”
incriminating text message exchanges where also presented. One message urged the recipient to “Delete this exchange.” Another revealed a request from robinson’s father to see a photograph of a rifle, alongside an expression of support for Donald Trump. Robinson stated his father had become “pretty diehard Maga” since Trump’s election.
Notably, Robinson indicated his intention to surrender to authorities, mentioning a neighbor who was a sheriff’s deputy.He concluded his messages with concern for his roommate, urging them to avoid contact with the media: “you are all I worry about love. Don’t talk to the media please. Don’t take any interviews or make any comments … if any police ask you questions ask for a lawyer and stay silent.”
Grunander emphasized that all statements made were accusations pending further legal proceedings and offered condolences to Kirk’s family,acknowledging the ”senseless and needless taking of charlie Kirk’s life” had caused immense suffering.
Robinson made an initial court appearance on Tuesday, where Judge Tony Graf scheduled a waiver hearing for september 29th at 10am GMT via Webex.
