Tyler Robinson
PicNews
Tyler Robinson, 22, has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. The arrest was made possible after Robinson’s father recognized him from surveillance images released by the FBI and contacted a family friend, a clergy member associated with the US Marshals, who then alerted law enforcement.
According to Utah Governor Spencer Cox, Robinson had become increasingly politicized in recent years and expressed disdain for Kirk’s views. In a conversation with a family member, Robinson mentioned Kirk’s planned appearance at the university and criticized him as “full of hate and spreading hate.” The family member also confirmed Robinson drove a gray Dodge Challenger, which matched the vehicle seen in surveillance footage near the campus.
Investigators found a high-powered bolt-action rifle used in the attack, discarded in a wooded area on campus. The rifle is being analyzed at an FBI crime lab, along with other evidence, including footwear impressions and palm prints collected at the scene. Bullet casings recovered from the scene had inscriptions, including “Hey fascist! Catch!” which Governor Cox believes speaks to the gunman’s intent.
Digital messages uncovered by investigators hinted at a premeditated plan. Robinson’s roommate shared messages from the Discord communications app attributed to the suspect, discussing retrieving a rifle from a drop point and leaving it wrapped in a towel in a bush. The messages also referred to engraving bullets and a mention of a scope and the rifle being unique.
When Robinson’s father confronted him about the shooting, he initially refused to surrender but later changed his mind after his father urged him to turn himself in. Robinson was taken into custody in Washington County, Utah, and is being held without bail. He faces charges of aggravated murder and other felonies, and Utah Governor Spencer Cox has indicated that the state will pursue the death penalty if convicted.
President Donald Trump praised law enforcement for their swift action and described Kirk as “the finest person” who “didn’t deserve this.” Kirk, 31, was the executive director of Turning Point USA and a close ally of President Trump. He was shot while speaking at an outdoor student event before a crowd of more than 3,000 at Utah Valley University.
