UTAH — Authorities have confirmed the arrest of 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, the suspect accused of fatally shooting conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Governor Spencer Cox announced the arrest at a press conference on Friday, declaring: “We got him.”
How Robinson Was Caught
Governor Cox revealed that a family member helped turn Robinson in after he confessed. The relative reached out to a family friend, who then contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Cox praised the family for “doing the right thing.”
Sources also told reporters that Robinson had spoken negatively about Kirk in recent years, and had become “more political” before the shooting.
President Trump Reacts
President Donald Trump confirmed the arrest earlier Friday morning on Fox & Friends.
“I think with a high degree of certainty, we have him… in custody,” Trump said.
The president also reminded viewers that he was the first to publicly announce Kirk’s death following the shooting.
Evidence Recovered
Investigators say Robinson drove a grey Dodge Challenger to campus at 8:29 a.m. on the day of the attack. Surveillance cameras captured his arrival.
The FBI later recovered the suspected murder weapon: a Mauser .30-06 bolt action rifle wrapped in a towel and hidden in the woods. Casings found with the rifle carried disturbing inscriptions, including:
- “Hey fascist! Catch!”
- “Bella Ciao” (a reference to the Italian resistance song)
- “If you read this, you are gay, LMAO.”
Mug Shots Released
Authorities confirmed Robinson is not a student at Utah Valley University. His mug shots have now been released to the public.
FBI Director Kash Patel praised the investigation as “historic progress” that brought a dangerous case to a conclusion in just 33 hours.
What’s Next
Robinson is being held in custody as investigators build their case. Officials have not yet confirmed formal charges.
The arrest closes a tense chapter for Utah residents and Kirk supporters nationwide, but questions remain about Robinson’s political motives and how the attack was planned.
