Suspect in Charlie Kirk Case Arrested
Tyler Robinson, who is suspected of attempting to assassinate Charlie Kirk, is currently in custody, according to officials on Friday morning. Utah Governor Spencer Cox announced the news at a press conference, stating, “We got him.”
On September 11th, Robinson’s family reached out to a family friend, who contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. They reported that Robinson had either confessed or strongly suggested his involvement in the incident, Governor Cox explained.
During the press conference, Cox added, “Robinson mentioned that Charlie Kirk had visited Utah Valley University (UVU) and discussed their disagreements with his views.”
The information was shared with the Utah County Sheriff’s Office, which included input from investigators at UVU. Review of surveillance footage revealed Robinson arriving at UVU in a maroon t-shirt, colorful shorts, a black hat, and light shoes on September 10th around 8:29 a.m. When questioned by the Washington County investigators early on September 12th, Robinson was seen wearing similar attire as captured in the video.
Cox further noted that investigators spoke with Robinson’s family and learned he had become increasingly political in recent years. The family also recounted a dinner incident shortly before September 10th, where Robinson mentioned Kirk’s visit to UVU. They confirmed that he drove a gray Dodge Challenger.
A message about the “search” indicated Robinson had attached a rifle at a drop-off location, also noting a towel-wrapped rifle and references to bullets. “The investigators found a bolt-action rifle wrapped in a dark towel, identified as a Moser model .30-06 caliber rifle, complete with a scope,” Cox stated.
Additionally, the governor shared that there was an inscription on a casing linked to the rifle that read, “Hey, Fascist! Catch!”
During the press conference, it became clear that Robinson is not a student at UVU and resides with his family in Washington County. He is currently held at the Utah County Jail, with formal charges expected early next week.
At 22 years old, Robinson’s situation has drawn significant attention. Meanwhile, some reports indicated that former President Donald Trump was involved in discussing the apprehension of the suspect, with Trump stating, “I think we’re in custody,” and recognizing the efforts of local law enforcement and the governor.
On another note, the FBI had previously released photographs of individuals of interest in the case. Authorities also shared a video that depicted these individuals’ movements around the area, suggesting where evidence, attributed to the suspects, was collected.
In terms of legal consequences, authorities stated they would seek the death penalty in this case.
Video footage reportedly captured suspects walking through residential areas following the incident, with some appearing to limp in one of the clips.
