The Shooter Wasn’t Alone: FBI Digs Into the Dark Web Around Kirk’s Killer
FBI Probes Wider Network in Charlie Kirk Assassination Case: “Multiple Warning Signs,” Says Deputy Director
The FBI is expanding its investigation into the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, as new evidence and testimony raise questions about whether the suspected shooter, Tyler Robinson, acted alone or was influenced and supported by a broader network.
Speaking to Fox News on Monday, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino revealed that federal investigators are looking into the possibility that Robinson may have been “aided and abetted” by others, either directly or indirectly, in planning the high-profile killing.
“There appear to have been multiple warning signs,” Bongino said. “We’re looking closely at people in his extended network, including those who may have had prior knowledge or provided support — even financial help — in the lead-up to the attack.”
Kirk Shot While Answering Question on Transgender Violence
Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot during a speaking event at Utah Valley University last Wednesday. As Kirk was responding to an audience question about mass shootings and transgender individuals, Robinson allegedly fired a single shot that struck him in the neck, killing him instantly.
Robinson was taken into custody 33 hours later, and authorities are now piecing together the events and motivations leading up to the shooting.
FBI Investigating Possible Online Radicalization
Investigators are reviewing Robinson’s digital footprint, including his activity on niche internet platforms. Sources familiar with the investigation say that federal agents are probing ties to various online communities, including pro-transgender forums, left-wing activist groups, and members of the “furry” subculture — some of which reportedly displayed anti-conservative rhetoric.
One group of particular interest is “Armed Queers SLC,” a Utah-based collective that deactivated its Instagram account shortly after the assassination. Law enforcement is also examining Robinson’s presence on gaming platforms like Steam, where he reportedly interacted with politically charged communities.
Bongino confirmed that federal agents are preparing subpoenas to collect data from multiple platforms and contacts connected to Robinson.
“We’ll be dropping a lot of paper,” Bongino told Fox’s Bill Hemmer. “This includes subpoenas and warrants aimed at uncovering any digital or financial trails pointing to coordinated planning or support.”
A Closer Look at the Shooter’s Personal Life
Tyler Robinson lived with 22-year-old Lance Twiggs, who is reportedly transgender and has been described by family members as a close romantic partner. Twiggs is cooperating with the investigation and is not accused of wrongdoing, but their influence on Robinson’s political views is under scrutiny.
A relative told Fox News Digital that they had concerns about the relationship.
“I think Tyler got worse after dating [Twiggs]. They were both into gaming and part of a crowd that had a strong influence on each other. My gut tells me the political radicalization came from there.”
Some neighbors described seeing the pair holding hands and behaving affectionately in public, further confirming the close nature of the relationship. According to the FBI, Robinson’s radicalization may have been shaped by his environment, both online and offline.
Cryptic Evidence and Incriminating Messages
In a chilling discovery, investigators reportedly found inscriptions on unused bullet casings at the scene — markings referencing anti-fascist movements and transgender activism. The shell casings are being analyzed for further forensic evidence.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that Robinson had sent a text message to another individual before the shooting, claiming he had an “opportunity” to assassinate Kirk and planned to act on it due to his intense disdain for the conservative speaker’s views.
“He clearly articulated that he hated what Charlie stood for,” Patel said. “That message may be a key piece of evidence pointing to premeditation and ideological motivation.”
More Questions Than Answers
While the investigation is ongoing, the FBI has not ruled out that others may have known about Robinson’s intentions. A TikTok user who was questioning Kirk moments before the shot was fired is also being reviewed for possible links.
Bongino emphasized that agents are treating the case as both a political assassination and a potential conspiracy.
“We’re not ready to say conclusively that there was a coordinated effort, but we are looking into the possibility,” he noted.
Political and Public Reactions
Utah Governor Spencer Cox weighed in last week, saying Robinson appeared to have been “deeply indoctrinated” by far-left ideologies, though he wasn’t affiliated with any formal political party.
As public mourning for Kirk continues across the country, federal authorities are under mounting pressure to determine whether this was an isolated act or part of a larger threat to political figures.
For now, investigators are racing to uncover any ties that may reveal how far-reaching the motivations and preparations behind the attack truly were — and who, if anyone, helped make it happen.