Authorities have arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson of Utah in connection with the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a university campus earlier this week. Utah Governor Spencer Cox and FBI Director Christopher Wray confirmed the arrest at a press conference Friday morning, where investigators shared new details about how Robinson was identified and taken into custody.
According to officials, a family member first alerted authorities after Robinson allegedly implied to them that he was responsible for the shooting. That tip was passed to a family friend, who then contacted the sheriff’s office. Investigators used surveillance footage to track Robinson’s movements on the day of the incident. Video showed him arriving on campus in one set of clothes, changing into dark clothing before the shooting, and then switching back afterward. When police arrived at his home early Friday, he was reportedly wearing the same clothes he had on when he first came to the campus.
Officials revealed that Robinson had exchanged messages with a roommate, mentioning a weapon wrapped in a towel and left in a wooded area. The firearm, identified as a Model 98 .36 caliber bolt-action rifle, was recovered along with ammunition casings engraved with anti-fascist messages and phrases referencing law enforcement. Investigators believe the engravings indicate a political motive. Governor Cox stated that Robinson had recently expressed strong opposition to Kirk and his viewpoints, describing Kirk as “full of hate and spreading hate,” according to information provided by the family member who reported the tip.
The single fatal shot that killed Kirk was fired from approximately 200 yards away, suggesting Robinson had experience with firearms. While investigators are looking into whether he has a military background, they said Robinson does not appear to have a prior criminal record. He reportedly attended the university for one semester but did not have known grievances with the school. Authorities do not believe there are additional suspects, though they are still determining whether federal charges will be filed. Formal charges are expected to be announced early next week.
Source: YouTube
