Charlie Kirk Shooting: Suspect Tyler Robinson, 22, in Custody, Says Utah Governor
Authorities have arrested a suspect in connection with the fatal shooting of conservative activist and media personality Charlie Kirk, Utah Governor Spencer Cox announced Friday. The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, was taken into custody less than 48 hours after Kirk was shot and killed during a public event at Utah Valley University. According to law enforcement, a single round was fired from a rooftop, striking Kirk in the neck in what officials are describing as a targeted assassination. “This photo released by the Utah Governor’s Office shows Tyler Robinson,” read a statement accompanying a mugshot of the suspect. The FBI had previously offered a $100,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters in New York, confirmed the development. “I think we have him,” Trump said. He went on to blame what he described as the “radical left” for the killing and hinted at potential punitive actions against political opponents, although he urged his supporters to remain nonviolent in the wake of the assassination. Kirk, a polarizing figure and founder of Turning Point USA, had been delivering remarks at a debate forum before the gunshot rang out, prompting chaos and an immediate lockdown of the venue. He was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at a nearby hospital. The killing has further inflamed political tensions in the U.S., already strained by election season rhetoric and deepening ideological divisions. Law enforcement has yet to release a motive or confirm whether Robinson acted alone or as part of a broader plot. The investigation remains ongoing, with federal and local agencies working in coordination. Authorities have not yet confirmed when Robinson will be arraigned or whether additional charges or suspects are expected. As tributes pour in from conservative leaders and activists nationwide, Kirk’s death is being mourned as a major loss within right-wing political circles, while also sparking renewed debate over political violence and security at public events.