Suspect Arrested in Fatal Shooting of Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk

SALT LAKE CITY, UT — Federal and state authorities announced Friday that a suspect has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of conservative commentator and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, who was gunned down during a campus speaking event earlier this week.

The FBI confirmed that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson was taken into custody following an extensive investigation involving more than 11,000 public tips. FBI Director Kash Patel, speaking at a press conference alongside Utah Governor Spencer Cox, shared that the investigation had moved quickly thanks to the help of concerned citizens — and one key tip from someone very close to the suspect.

Family Connection Leads to Break in the Case

Authorities revealed that Robinson’s arrest came after his father recognized surveillance footage shared by the FBI. The images showed a man arriving at Utah Valley University (UVU) — the site of the shooting — in a gray Dodge Challenger shortly before the attack.

Robinson’s father, after identifying his son, reportedly contacted a family pastor, and together they convinced Robinson to turn himself in. Former President Donald Trump, speaking on Fox & Friends Friday morning, praised the cooperation, stating, “We believe we have the right person — and someone close to him helped bring him in.”

The shooter opened fire during a student event organized by UVU’s chapter of Turning Point USA, where Kirk, 31, was hosting a discussion under a tent on the university plaza. At around 12:20 p.m. Wednesday, a single gunshot rang out, striking Kirk in the neck. He collapsed on the spot and was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

Digital Trail Offers Clues

As part of their investigation, agents examined Robinson’s digital communications, including a Discord chat where he reportedly discussed details of the shooting. Authorities said Robinson exchanged messages with an unnamed individual about how to return to the scene to retrieve the weapon he allegedly left behind.

Investigators were able to document those conversations, which included discussions about the suspected weapon — believed to be a Mauser 30.06 bolt-action rifle — as well as plans to hide the gun and descriptions of Robinson’s clothing on the day of the incident.

“We were given access to some of the messages and allowed to photograph them,” said FBI Special Agent Robert Bohls. “They offered key insight into the suspect’s mindset and movements.”

Sniper-Style Shooting from Rooftop

Footage from the day of the event appears to show a dark-clad figure on the rooftop of UVU’s Losee Center building, located roughly 200 yards from where Kirk was speaking. Investigators believe the shot was fired from that rooftop using a high-powered rifle found later on a trail Robinson may have used to flee.

Along with the weapon, forensic teams recovered a palm print, a partial footprint, and a forearm impression, according to Bohls.

Bullet casings found at the scene reportedly contained handwritten messages, including the phrases:

• “Hey Fascist! Catch!”

• “Bella Ciao” (an anti-fascist Italian folk song)

• “If you read this, you are gay lmao”

These writings, along with other materials reportedly found in Robinson’s possession, suggest he may have been motivated by strong political views. According to family members, Robinson had become “increasingly political” over the past two years, with specific disdain for Charlie Kirk and his organization expressed at a recent family gathering.

Emotional Tributes and National Attention

The shooting shocked both the local community and the national conservative movement. Kirk, a father of two, was known for his outspoken support of conservative causes and for his work with young activists across the country through Turning Point USA.

Ivanka Trump shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, calling Kirk a “brilliant, fearless patriot” and mourning his sudden loss. “His voice, his passion, and his mission will live on,” she wrote.

While Kirk often courted controversy, his supporters describe him as a tireless advocate for free speech and American values. “We lost a fighter, a father, and a friend,” Turning Point USA said in a statement. “He gave everything he had to the cause.”

What Comes Next

Tyler Robinson is expected to face multiple charges, including first-degree murder and unlawful use of a firearm. No court date has yet been set, but prosecutors say they will push for the maximum penalty.

Authorities continue to investigate the identity of the individual Robinson communicated with over Discord, and whether that person may face charges as well.

As Utah Valley University grapples with the tragedy, students and faculty are calling for increased security measures at future public events. A memorial for Kirk is being planned on campus next week.