Sniper Suspect in Charlie Kirk Assassination Identified as Tyler Robinson; 22-Year-Old Utah Man

CLEVELAND 13 (WCTU) — Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old Utah resident, has been identified by officials as the prime suspect in the Sept. 10 sniper-style shooting that killed conservative commentator Charlie Kirk during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University in Orem. Robinson was taken into custody in Washington County after a tip from a family member or friend who said he had confessed or strongly implied responsibility for the killing.

“Robinson is in custody, and we’re working closely with federal partners on next steps,” Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said during a press briefing that confirmed the arrest. “This investigation is moving quickly, and our top priority is accountability and justice.”

Officials tied Robinson to the shooting through a combination of surveillance footage from the UVU campus, Discord messages in which he discussed retrieving a rifle, and forensic evidence including palm and footwear impressions discovered on a rooftop approximately 200 yards from the scene. A bolt-action rifle believed to be the murder weapon was recovered near campus shortly afterward.

Investigators have not released a formal motive, but they highlighted a disturbing detail about the ammunition used in the attack. Shell casings recovered from the site bore engraved messages such as “Hey fascist, catch” and a reference to the anti-fascist anthem “Bella Ciao.” Authorities said these inscriptions may point to ideological motives, though no definitive conclusion has been reached.

The shooting occurred while Kirk was addressing a large outdoor crowd on campus. Authorities described the incident as a single, targeted shot fired from long range. No one else was physically harmed in the attack.

Robinson has not yet been formally charged. Federal and state prosecutors are coordinating to determine whether the case will proceed under state jurisdiction, federal jurisdiction, or both. Some legal analysts anticipate potential federal charges related to firearms violations or political assassination, but officials have not confirmed any specific counts.

President Donald Trump was the first to announce the suspect’s arrest during a televised appearance, hours before state and federal officials held their own press conference confirming the details. Robinson was booked into a Washington County jail shortly afterward.

Public records show Robinson is a registered voter in Utah, but his status is currently inactive. He is not affiliated with any political party. State records also show his parents are registered Republicans. Investigators and relatives say Robinson had become more political in recent years and had expressed criticism of Charlie Kirk’s views. During a recent family gathering, he reportedly described Kirk’s rhetoric as “full of hate,” according to a relative.

Robinson’s online activity, particularly on Discord, played a critical role in linking him to the crime. Authorities cited messages in which he allegedly discussed both obtaining the rifle and engraving bullets with political messages. There has been no manifesto or broader ideological statement released by officials, and no evidence has emerged linking Robinson to any formal political or extremist organization.

Officials have not released information regarding Robinson’s race or ethnicity. A mugshot has circulated among media outlets, but no public agency has confirmed those details. His sexual orientation has also not been stated by authorities or reported in any verified media. Early reports indicate that Robinson is a Utah native who briefly attended Utah State University in 2021 and had no known criminal history prior to this incident.

Federal and state investigators are continuing to gather evidence as they prepare for potential charges. “This case has shocked the community and demands a thorough, impartial response,” said an FBI spokesperson during the briefing.

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