Authorities in the United States have apprehended the individual accused of killing right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk earlier this week, bringing an end to a high-stakes manhunt that has exacerbated political tensions across the country.
In a press conference on Friday morning, Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed, “We got him,” revealing that the suspect is 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, report a number of US agencies.
Robinson, who has been in custody since Thursday evening, is believed to have acted alone in what Cox described as a “political assassination.”
According to the governor, Robinson’s family had tipped off the authorities, with a relative stating that Robinson had either confessed or hinted at his involvement in the murder.
Further investigation revealed messages from Robinson on the Discord platform, in which he mentioned the rifle used in the shooting and references to bullet engravings that suggest a politically charged motive.
Cox added that interviews with Robinson’s relatives revealed his growing political views over recent years and his critical stance towards Kirk, the co-founder of the conservative group Turning Point USA and a strong supporter of former President Donald Trump.
Robinson is expected to face charges shortly. Surveillance footage captured Robinson before the incident, wearing clothing consistent with what he wore when he was later located by investigators on September 12.
Authorities have since gathered forensic evidence, which is still under evaluation, as the investigation continues, as confirmed by FBI Director Kash Patel.
