Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday afternoon. A gunshot rang out from atop a nearby building while Kirk was speaking. Authorities announced on Friday that a suspect has been apprehended.
Here’s a brief timeline of what transpired leading up to the shooting and subsequent arrest:
Wednesday, September 10th
11:52 AM – Arrival of the Suspect
According to Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason, the suspect arrived at Utah Valley University at 11:52 AM. He detailed tracking the person’s movements on campus, which included passage through stairwells and rooftops.
12:00 PM – Event Commences
TPUSA’s event began in the UVU courtyard, attracting a crowd around a large tent adorned with signs saying “American comeback” and “Prove me wrong.” Organizers noted approximately 1,400 RSVPs for the gathering.
12:20 PM – The Shot is Fired
Ellen Trenner, a university spokesperson, noted that filming started at 12:20 PM just as the shot was fired from a building about 200 yards away. Kirk was struck in the neck while responding to audience questions and was quickly transported to a local hospital. Witnesses reported panic as attendees fled the area, while the shooter exited the scene and fled into a nearby neighborhood.
12:22 – 12:30 PM – Campus Evacuated
UVU confirmed that police escorted students and staff off campus as the area was cleared. Classes were suspended until September 14th as investigations began, with the cooperation of local police and the FBI.
12:53 PM – FBI Response
FBI Director Kash Patel stated that agents arrived promptly to assess the situation, expressing shock over the tragic incident involving Kirk, who had a significant influence on many young Americans.
Shortly after the incident, UVU confirmed the arrest of a suspect but did not disclose the individual’s identity at that time.
1:40 PM – Confirmation of Kirk’s Death
Former President Donald Trump expressed his condolences through a post, highlighting Kirk’s impact on youth in America and extending sympathy to his family.
4:21 PM – Additional Arrest
Patel later announced another suspect had been taken into custody related to the shooting.
5:59 PM – Detailing the Released Suspect
Patel noted that the earlier apprehended suspect was released after questioning, emphasizing that the investigation is ongoing.
Thursday, September 11th
7:15 AM – FBI Press Conference
Investigators shared they had obtained surveillance footage from the campus, tracking the suspect’s movements as he fled post-shooting.
Weapons Recovered
Authorities announced they had found what appears to be the murder weapon, a powerful bolt-action rifle, in a wooded area where the shooter escaped. They also mentioned examining other physical evidence for further leads.
9:48 AM – Public Assistance Sought
The FBI sought the public’s help in identifying individuals connected to Kirk’s shooting.
10:44 AM – Rewards Offered
The FBI announced a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the identification and arrests of those responsible for the murder.
Friday, September 12th
8:00 AM – Updates on Suspect Status
Trump announced a suspect’s arrest and stated confidence in the local police’s handling of the situation.
9:35 AM – Suspect Identified
Sources indicated that the suspect is a 22-year-old resident of Utah named Tyler Robinson.
