Tyler Robinson’s Background and Shooting of Charlie Kirk
St. George, Utah — Tyler Robinson, the individual accused of assassinating Charlie Kirk, likely developed his long-range shooting skills in Utah’s expansive desert areas, according to local sources.
Robinson reportedly used his grandfather’s scoped .30-06 hunting rifle to shoot Kirk from a rooftop 140 yards away, three hours from his residence, as stated by prosecutors. In a text message to his partner after the shooting, he seemingly boasted about the rifle, saying, “I think that grandpa’s gun is just right for the job. I think it was in the $2k range.”
Locals mentioned that there are no indoor shooting ranges available near Robinson’s hometown of St. George where one can practice marksmanship over long distances. However, many often venture into the nearby Mojave Desert for hunting and target practice.
“He would have needed to train outdoors for that kind of range. Anyone can go out into the desert and practice shooting on public land outside the city,” explained Shawn Wood, who owns Rowdy’s Range & Armory in St. George.
Washington County, located near the Arizona border, features a rugged landscape that resembles those found in classic Western films.
The Utah Department of Land Management oversees over 600,000 acres of this area, providing ample space for Robinson to potentially hone his skills undetected.
Authorities have not disclosed specific details on how Robinson practiced for the fatal shot.
The weapon utilized in the murder was a bolt-action Mosin-Nagant rifle, which requires the shooter to cycle the actions manually between shots. Its telescopic sight is advantageous for spotting distant targets.
After the shooting, Robinson allegedly abandoned the weapon while fleeing the scene, according to law enforcement reports.
Key Details About the Shooting Incident
- Tyler Robinson, 22, has been identified as the suspect who fatally shot Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University on September 10.
- He faces charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious injuries, and obstruction of justice.
- Robinson was reportedly living with a transgender roommate, and interactions between them ultimately aided law enforcement in capturing the suspect.
- Kirk, 31, a well-known figure from Turning Point USA, was shot in the neck during an American comeback tour event.
- Former President Trump has called for the death penalty for the accused.
- Kirk’s body was transported to Arizona from Utah, accompanied by Vice President J.D. Vance, for the funeral service in Phoenix.
- His funeral is set for September 21 at State Farm Stadium, the home of the Arizona Cardinals, with President Trump expected to attend.
- Kirk is survived by his wife and two young children.
In a text message sent hours post-assassination, Robinson allegedly mentioned plans to retrieve the rifle from a concealed location and return it home before it could be discovered.
In this rural area of Utah, it’s more common for families not to own firearms. Wood reminisced about a time in high school when students would hide their hunting rifles in lockers on the first day of deer hunting season.
Robinson has been charged with aggravated murder and could potentially face the death penalty if convicted.
