Tyler Robinson, 22, from Utah, has been identified as the killer of 32-year-old conservative activist and Trump ally Charlie Kirk. Authorities believe he likely acted alone.
- Some of Robinson’s ammunition was inscribed with “Bella Ciao” and “hello fascist.”
- At a family dinner before the murder, he spoke negatively about Kirk, saying he was full of hate and spread hate.
- Robinson arrived at the university four hours before the shooting.
- Authorities thanked Robinson’s family for “doing the right thing.”
- Utah’s governor called the case a potential turning point in American history, noting, “We will see what kind.”
- After the murder, Robinson changed clothes on a rooftop.
Legal Proceedings and Arrest
Robinson was arrested in Utah at 10 p.m. local time on Thursday, just 33 hours after the crime, according to FBI Director Kash Patel. Over 11,000 pieces of forensic evidence have been reviewed. Authorities have three days to file charges, with prosecutors working closely with Kirk’s family.
Governor’s Warning on Social Media
Governor Spencer Cox urged the public not to share the graphic murder video online, warning that consuming such content is harmful and humans are not equipped to process constant exposure to violence and hate.
Utah Governor on Charlie Kirk’s Words of Forgiveness
Governor Spencer Cox of Utah shared that some of Charlie Kirk’s words have been guiding during this difficult time. Kirk had said: “When people stop talking, violence emerges. The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is a trait of the strong. The only way out of the maze of pain is to forgive, accept without judgment, love unconditionally, and forgive without limits.”
He also famously said: “Always forgive your enemies. Nothing annoys them more.”
Tyler Robinson, the suspect in the shooting of Charlie Kirk, was not a student at Utah Valley University, Governor Spencer Cox confirmed. Robinson had been living with his family in Washington County for an extended period.
Messages engraved on Robinson’s ammunition contained references to internet and video game culture, including arrow symbols that may represent game controller sequences and phrases used for online trolling.
Governor Cox also criticized social media, calling it “a cancer for our society” and encouraged people to disconnect, spend time outdoors, and engage positively with their communities. He noted that in his city, Republicans and Democrats are meeting to discuss ways to better themselves and strengthen their community.
The FBI has confirmed that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson is responsible for the murder of Charlie Kirk. Utah Governor Spencer Cox stated that Robinson likely acted alone and was arrested in Washington County, roughly three to four hours from Orem, where his family lives. Robinson had changed clothes on a rooftop prior to the attack, and when apprehended, he was wearing the same clothes as before the shooting.
JD Vance, a friend of Kirk, expressed gratitude to law enforcement and Utah officials for their work. The FBI Director, Kash Patel, outlined the investigation timeline: the shooting occurred on September 10, the crime scene was secured shortly after, and the suspect was arrested on the evening of September 11. The FBI conducted around 7,000 interviews in the investigation.
Authorities highlighted social media messages, communications with Robinson’s family, and physical evidence linking him to the crime. Some of Robinson’s ammunition had inscriptions, including “Bella ciao” and other messages. Surveillance footage showed Robinson arriving near the Utah Valley University four hours before the shooting.
Governor Cox emphasized the gravity of the case, describing it as a potential turning point in American history, while Utah Sheriff Mike Smith thanked citizens for their support and prayers during the investigation.
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