FBI Arrested Suspect in Charlie Kirk’s Fatal Shooting, President Trump Says “With a High Degree of Certainty”

Trump said that a suspect was arrested for the murder of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. He believed “with a high degree of certainty” that the perpetrator was in custody. Someone close to the subject helped police identify and arrest him, Trump said.

Charlie Kirk died while presenting at Utah Valley University in Orem. The deadly shot was fired from a building 200 feet or more from the stage. Law authorities found CCTV footage, including clothing photos, that identified a suspect. Nearby was a high-powered bolt-action rifle suspected of being used in the shooting.

Authorities have identified the suspect as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson from Utah. Robinson has been increasingly politically active and opposed Kirk’s views, say investigators. He was linked to the shooting by chat app texts, political bullets, and family and friend tips. His father cooperated after seeing security footage, and a preacher helped him submit.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox announced at a press event that Robinson was captured and that authorities believe this was a targeted killing. After evaluating thousands of leads, Cox said police tracked Robinson’s behavior through surveillance, digital records, and witness reports. Discord messages and bullet casing engravings are related.

President Trump called the shooting a “heinous assassination” and warned that political violence endangers free expression and public safety. He hoped for justice, including the death penalty. Trump also encouraged public political activities despite security concerns.

Authorities claim there is no community threat. The FBI and state police say their investigation is ongoing and will reveal more details as evidence is examined and released.

Sources:
People Magazine, Reuters, AP News, Al Jazeera, and The Guardian.