Authorities have arrested and identified the suspect in the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.
The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, was reportedly turned in after contacting law enforcement and is alleged to have confessed or implied involvement in the attack.
Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was addressing students on Wednesday when he was fatally shot in the neck.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox (R) confirmed Robinson’s arrest and detailed the suspect’s actions in a press conference on Friday by saying, “We got him.”
He added that Robinson had privately expressed dislike for Kirk and had become more politically engaged in recent years.
Cox also highlighted Kirk’s emphasis on dialogue and civility.
He cited Kirk’s words that “when people stop talking, that’s when you get violence,” underscoring the activist’s belief in maintaining perspective and human connection even during heated disagreements.
FBI Director Kash Patel praised the rapid coordination between federal and local authorities.
“In 33 hours, we have made historic progress for Charlie,” Patel said. “I want to express my deep gratitude to President Trump, the vice president, and the entire White House, who have been so incredibly supportive with both resources and just personally to the FBI as a team.”
“They had our backs the entire way. And I just want to express my gratitude for giving us the resources we need to operate in this space to bring this sort of justice at this sort of speed.
Patel said the case was solved quickly thanks to strong coordination with state and local agencies and the more than 11,000 tips submitted to the FBI, reflecting the professionalism and dedication of law enforcement
Authorities reported that Robinson allegedly fired a single shot from roughly 200 yards away, likely from a rooftop atop the Losee Center building across from the tent where Kirk had been speaking.
Investigators recovered bullet casings at the scene bearing offensive messages, including “Hey, fascist! Catch!” and “Bella ciao, bella ciao, bella ciao, ciao, ciao,” emphasizing the deliberate nature of the attack.
Kirk had been traveling as part of his “Prove Me Wrong” tour, designed to encourage college students to challenge ideas and participate in political discussions.
He was set to speak at Utah Valley University representing Turning Point USA, the conservative student organization he founded.
Two other individuals were briefly taken into custody prior to Robinson’s arrest, while multiple federal and local law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, Utah Department of Public Safety, Utah County Sheriff’s Office, Orem Police Department and Utah Valley University Police, worked together on the investigation.
President Donald Trump praised the investigation’s outcome, noting the role of the suspect’s family and a minister in alerting authorities.
He expressed hopes that Robinson will face the death penalty if convicted, calling Kirk “the finest person” and acknowledging his impact in mobilizing young conservatives.
Kirk leaves behind his wife and two young children, whose loss has profoundly affected friends, colleagues and the conservative community.
Thousands of vigils have been held worldwide in his honor, reflecting the impact of his work.
His commitment to fostering student engagement and promoting civil discourse has left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew him.
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