Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old Utah resident, has been named by Utah Governor Spencer Cox as the suspect in the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. Authorities apprehended Robinson late Thursday following an extensive 33-hour federal manhunt and investigation involving over 200 interviews and around 11,000 public tips.
Governor Cox expressed gratitude to Robinson’s family, who played a critical role in the suspect’s surrender after a relative reached out to a family friend, who then notified law enforcement. Robinson reportedly either confessed or implied his involvement in the shooting to his family. According to investigators, Robinson had become increasingly political and expressed strong disdain for Kirk in recent conversations, describing him as “full of hate and spreading hate.”
Surveillance footage released by authorities shows a man fleeing across a university rooftop approximately 120 meters from the speaking area where Kirk was shot. Robinson was identified arriving on campus hours before the killing, wearing clothes matching those captured in the footage. A bolt-action rifle, believed to be the murder weapon, was recovered nearby. Authorities also found incriminating evidence from Robinson’s online activity, including his profile on the Discord platform.
Robinson lives in a suburban home near St. George, Utah, with his parents and two younger siblings. His parents operate a granite countertop business and are registered Republicans. Robinson is reported to have been a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon church) from a young age. He is a third-year electrical apprenticeship student at Dixie College, part of Utah’s public university system.
Governor Cox confirmed that Robinson is being held on charges including aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm. Prosecutors plan to pursue the death penalty. The suspect appeared cooperative after arrest and was taken into custody without bail. His family and community remain in shock as more details emerge about his radicalization over the past few years.
The killing of Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative voice and former Trump associate, reverberated across the nation, igniting intense political debates about violence and extremism. Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, vowed to continue his legacy and condemned the act in heartfelt statements following the tragedy.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities collect more evidence from Robinson’s residence and social media. The case continues to be a focal point in national conversations about political violence and security at public events.
