Charlie Kirk Shooting: Suspect in Custody, Family Assisted Investigation
Following a shooting that resulted in the death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, authorities have arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, identified as the suspect. Utah Governor Spencer Cox revealed a crucial element in the swift apprehension: Robinson’s own family members came forward with facts that led to his arrest. Governor Cox stated thay initially notified friends and then contacted police, ultimately aiding in bringing him to justice. He publicly thanked the family for “doing the right thing.”
investigators learned Robinson had become increasingly “politicized” in recent years and had previously expressed dislike for Kirk and his viewpoints. Evidence suggests Robinson discussed the location of firearms on the social platform Discord and had changed his clothing prior to the incident. He arrived on the campus on September 10th and later traveled south to Washington, utah.
A Mauser .30-06 bolt-action rifle, wrapped in a towel, was recovered at the scene, along with multiple bullet casings bearing inscriptions, including the message “Hey fascist! Catch!”. Governor Cox characterized the shooting as an attack not only on an individual, but also on core American values.
FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted the “historic progress” made within 33 hours of the incident, attributing the rapid resolution to strong cooperation between law enforcement agencies. He also expressed gratitude to Kirk’s family and the White House for their support, stating the suspect is in custody and will be prosecuted.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the arrest, noting the suspect was identified through information provided by individuals “very close to” Robinson. He indicated further details would be released by the relevant departments. Trump described Kirk as a “son-like existence” and a valuable asset to the Republican party, particularly in reaching young voters on platforms like TikTok.He learned of the arrest shortly before an interview with Haws News and praised law enforcement for their “excellent performance.” Trump expressed his desire for the suspect to face the death penalty.
Law enforcement had previously released surveillance footage and photographs of a person of interest – a man seen running from the scene wearing a black T-shirt and sneakers, and later depicted in a T-shirt with the American flag and Converse shoes. Evidence collected at the scene included palm prints and shoe prints.
Charlie Kirk’s coffin has arrived in Arizona, where his widow, Erika, was joined by Usha vance, wife of Vice President JD Vance, to bid farewell. President Trump has confirmed his attendance at Kirk’s funeral.