Tyler Robinson, 22, has been taken into custody in connection with the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.

Authorities have confirmed the arrest of Tyler Robinson, 22, in connection with the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.

The announcement came during a Friday, Sept. 12 press conference led by Utah Governor Spencer Cox, who explained that a family member of Robinson had reached out to a family friend, relaying that Robinson had either confessed or implied responsibility for the shooting.

The family friend then alerted law enforcement, leading to the suspect’s capture.

“We got him,” Cox declared, acknowledging the cooperation of Robinson’s relatives and emphasizing the importance of their role in ending the 33-hour manhunt.

Charlie Kirk, 31, the founder of Turning Point USA, was shot on Wednesday, Sept. 10, during a college tour event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Authorities believe Robinson fired from the roof of a building approximately 200 yards from where Kirk was speaking.

Witnesses later described seeing a figure in dark clothing moving across the rooftop moments before the attack. The FBI released surveillance footage showing the suspect sprinting across the roof, climbing down, and fleeing into a wooded area near campus.

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that Robinson was taken into custody at 10 p.m. MT on Thursday, Sept. 11. Officials also recovered a high-powered, bolt-action rifle believed to have been used in the shooting.

Additional evidence, including a forearm imprint, a footwear print, and a palm print, was found on the roof, with authorities employing forensic technologies to review and match these to the suspect.

Governor Cox revealed further details about the suspect’s mindset leading up to the incident. Robinson had grown increasingly political in recent years and expressed disdain for Kirk’s public views.

“They talked about why they didn’t like him and the viewpoints that he had,” Cox explained, adding that Robinson described Kirk as “full of hate and spreading hate” during a family dinner prior to the shooting.

The governor emphasized that the family’s cooperation was critical, stating, “I want to thank the family members of Tyler Robinson, who did the right thing in this case.”

Complicating the investigation, authorities found inscriptions on unfired bullet casings believed to belong to Robinson. One casing reportedly read, “Hey fascist, catch,” while another said, “If you read this you are gay lmao.”

These markings were initially mischaracterized in early law enforcement bulletins, which inaccurately suggested references to “transgender ideology.”

Cox clarified that these reports were incorrect and that no evidence suggested a broader ideological motive beyond the suspect’s personal views of Kirk.

Investigators also discovered messages on the Discord app allegedly sent by Robinson, indicating he intended to “retrieve a rifle from a drop point.” These messages have raised questions about whether the attack was premeditated.

While law enforcement has not identified any additional suspects or accomplices, the case remains under active investigation, with authorities closely reviewing digital and physical evidence.

President Donald Trump, commenting on the arrest during an appearance on Fox & Friends, praised the law enforcement effort and noted that someone “very close” to Robinson had facilitated the capture.

“I think with a high degree of certainty we have him in custody,” Trump said, acknowledging the role of the suspect’s family in ending the manhunt.

The shooting has sent shockwaves through the conservative community and nationwide. Charlie Kirk, known for his outspoken right-wing commentary and leadership of Turning Point USA, had been conducting a “college tour” promoting his political message.

Videos and photos from the event show attendees reacting in horror as the shooting unfolded, while campus security and local law enforcement quickly secured the area.

In the aftermath, authorities have been working to reconcile eyewitness accounts, surveillance footage, and physical evidence.

Investigators continue to analyze the high-powered rifle, bullet casings, and the prints found on the roof to confirm Robinson’s involvement definitively.

The FBI also continues to assess the Discord messages to determine if there were any indicators of planning or collaboration with others.

Tyler Robinson, who was taken into custody in St. George, Utah, faces multiple charges, including aggravated murder. Prosecutors have the discretion to seek the death penalty under Utah law for aggravated murder, particularly in circumstances that placed bystanders at risk.

Robinson’s arraignment is scheduled for Sept. 16, where he will enter a plea. Legal experts note that the defendant could seek a plea deal to avoid a capital sentence, though a jury conviction could result in lethal injection or firing squad execution if necessary.

The shooting has sparked nationwide attention and debate about campus security, political polarization, and the potential risks faced by public figures in today’s charged environment.

Authorities emphasize that the investigation is ongoing, and while Robinson is in custody, they are continuing to analyze every aspect of the case to prevent further violence.

Charlie Kirk’s death has left a profound impact on his followers and colleagues, with many expressing grief and calling for unity in the wake of the tragedy.

Law enforcement officials continue to work tirelessly to ensure the facts surrounding the shooting are thoroughly documented and that justice is pursued.

As Utah communities mourn and the nation watches closely, Robinson’s arrest represents a critical step toward accountability, but many questions remain about the events leading up to that fateful day and the motives behind them.