Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old from Utah, is suspected of killing Charlie Kirk and reportedly expressed significant animosity toward conservative activists in a text exchange with his roommate. This information came to light following a press announcement.
Robinson’s roommate, who is also a 22-year-old transgender Utah resident and romantically involved with him, confirmed to authorities that he received a message from Robinson about the shooting that occurred during an event at Utah Valley University.
According to the roommate, Robinson’s initial text read, “Drop what you’re doing and look under my keyboard.” There, the roommate discovered a note stating, “I have the opportunity to take Charlie Kirk away and I’m going to take it.”
Law enforcement later obtained a photo of this note. In subsequent texts, Robinson mentioned feeling a mix of concern and urgency, saying, “I’m still hope my love is okay, but I’m stuck [in Orem] for a little longer. It shouldn’t be long before I can go home, but I still have to grab my rifle.” He seemed conflicted about his actions, reflecting, “To be honest, I wanted to keep this a secret until I passed away in my old age.”
The exchange continued with the roommate asking if they thought someone had been caught. Robinson responded, “No, they grabbed some crazy old guys and interrogated people in similar clothes.” He indicated plans to retrieve a rifle but mentioned that much of the area was blocked off.
In explaining his motive for killing Kirk, Robinson claimed, “I had enough of his hatred. I can’t negotiate some hatred. If I could make my rifle invisible, I would have left no evidence.” He described his plans as a “little” shooting.
Robinson also referenced a bullet sculpture he had been making, calling it a “big meme” and indicating that its purpose was misunderstood.
Evidence including DNA was linked to Robinson from materials found at the scene, including a trigger from the rifle and spent cartridges.
Robinson was taken into custody after a lengthy search and he reportedly confessed to his father, who secured him until authorities arrived. In a series of texts, Robinson advised his partner not to speak to the media, saying, “Don’t interview or comment… if the police ask you questions, stay silent and get a lawyer.”
The state of Utah is pursuing the death penalty against Robinson, charging him with multiple offenses including aggravated murder.
Robinson’s mother indicated to police that he had become increasingly politicized over the past year, aligning more on the left and distancing himself from conservative values. Following a romantic relationship with his roommate, family tensions over political beliefs reportedly intensified, especially between Robinson and his father.
Prior to the shooting, Robinson had mentioned Kirk’s upcoming event, calling it a “silly venue” and criticizing him for what he perceived as spreading hatred.
