The suspected killer of American conservative activist Charlie Kirk has been arrested following a two-day manhunt by U.S. security agencies.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox identified 22-year-old Tyler Robinson as the shooter during a Friday press conference, moments after President Donald Trump confirmed the arrest live on television. “We got him,” Trump declared, adding that Robinson had been taken into custody just minutes before his interview with Fox & Friends.
How Robinson Was Arrested
According to Governor Cox, Robinson’s capture was made possible after a relative reached out to a friend, who then alerted authorities. Investigators said Robinson had expressed “hate” toward Charlie Kirk at a recent gathering.
Reports suggest Robinson confessed to his father, Matt, telling him he would rather die than surrender. His father persuaded him to speak with a local youth minister—who also collaborates with the U.S. Marshals Service—leading to his eventual arrest.
Trump praised law enforcement for the swift action, while describing Kirk as “brilliant” and “like a son,” adding: “I’ve never seen young people rally around one person like they did to Charlie.”
Who Was Charlie Kirk?
Charlie Kirk, 31, was a prominent conservative commentator and close ally of Trump. He played a significant role in mobilizing young Republican voters during the last presidential election.
On Wednesday, Kirk was shot in the neck while addressing an audience of 3,000 at Utah Valley University. He was rushed to hospital but died shortly after. His assassination drew widespread tributes from Trump, former U.S. presidents, and world leaders.
Who Is Tyler Robinson?
Here are seven key facts about the suspect now facing capital charges:
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From Southern Utah
Robinson grew up in St. George and graduated from Pine View High School in 2020. -
No Criminal Record
State records show he had no prior offenses. He is a registered Utah voter but not affiliated with any political party. -
Close-Knit Family
Social media posts from his mother, Amber, depict him as the eldest of three boys, often on family trips and vacations to the Grand Canyon. -
Academically Gifted
He scored 34 out of 36 on the ACT in 2020, placing him in the top 1% nationwide. He briefly studied at Utah State University on an academic scholarship. -
Trump-Themed Costume
In 2017, Robinson wore a Trump-related Halloween outfit, according to family photos. -
Non-Partisan Voter
While his parents are Republicans, Robinson is registered as an unaffiliated voter and is considered “inactive,” having skipped recent elections. -
Raised Around Guns
Robinson’s father, a longtime sheriff’s officer, trained him in firearms from a young age. Authorities said the bolt-action rifle used in the shooting carried unusual engraved messages, including lyrics from the Italian anti-fascist anthem Bella Ciao and internet meme-style taunts.
What Happens Next?
Robinson faces charges of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious injury, and obstruction of justice, according to court documents obtained by NBC News. Prosecutors confirmed he could face the death penalty if convicted.
