Utah Man in Custody Following 33-Hour Manhunt
Authorities in Utah have arrested a 22-year-old man suspected of killing conservative commentator and activist Charlie Kirk during a university event earlier this week. The suspect, identified as Tyler Robinson, was taken into custody Thursday night after his father persuaded him to surrender, ending an intense 33-hour search that gripped the nation.
Father’s Role in Surrender
Police confirmed that Robinson’s father played a crucial role in bringing the suspect in alive. According to investigators, Robinson confessed to his father that he was responsible for Kirk’s death and initially expressed an intention to take his own life rather than face justice. Concerned for his son’s safety, the father reached out to a youth pastor and family friend, who also works as a court security officer. Together, they convinced Robinson to cooperate and contacted U.S. Marshals.
Robinson was detained peacefully at around 10 p.m. local time in Washington County, Utah. When arrested, he was reportedly wearing clothing similar to what was seen on campus surveillance cameras on the day of the shooting.
Governor and Federal Response
Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed during a Friday press conference that Robinson had arrived on the campus of Utah Valley University (UVU) hours before the fatal shot was fired. Cox revealed that surveillance footage placed him near the scene, and additional digital evidence linked him to the crime.
President Donald Trump publicly acknowledged the arrest and called for the death penalty in Robinson’s case, underscoring the national significance of the incident.
Details of the Shooting
The tragic shooting occurred Wednesday afternoon while Kirk was participating in a student debate at UVU. The gunfire sent students running for safety and prompted a swift lockdown of the campus.
Authorities later recovered the suspected weapon — a Mauser .30-06 bolt-action rifle — hidden in a wooded area near campus. Investigators said the firearm was wrapped in a towel and had a scope attached. Casings found near the weapon contained engravings reading “Hey fascist! CATCH!” and the Italian phrase “Bella ciao,” a reference to an anthem of the anti-fascist resistance during World War II.
Digital Evidence and Motive
Officials also disclosed that Robinson’s roommate shared Discord messages allegedly sent by Robinson before the attack. The messages mentioned retrieving a rifle from a “drop point” and leaving the gun hidden in a bush.
A family member interviewed by investigators stated that Robinson had grown increasingly political in recent years and had expressed anger about Kirk visiting Utah. He allegedly said the conservative commentator was “full of hate and spreading hate.”
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Formal charges are expected to be filed Tuesday. Robinson faces counts of aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm, according to the Utah County Sheriff’s Office booking records.
Campus and Community Reactions
The shooting has deeply shaken the UVU community. The campus has remained closed since Wednesday, with police vehicles and yellow crime scene tape blocking entrances.
Students expressed a mixture of relief and sorrow after hearing news of the arrest. “I just feel deeply ashamed that this happened in my home county,” said first-year student McKinley Shinkle. Her cousin, Anthony, added, “I’m relieved he’s in custody, but I just want to know why he did this.”
Background on the Suspect
Public records indicate Robinson is an unaffiliated voter and did not participate in the last presidential election. He lives in St. George, Utah, near Zion National Park, about 250 miles southwest of UVU.
Robinson is currently enrolled in his third year of an electrical apprenticeship program at Dixie Technical College. Social media profiles suggest his father owns a kitchen countertop installation business, while his mother works as a social worker. The family is active in the local Mormon church.
Ongoing Investigation
Governor Cox said investigators are not seeking additional suspects at this time. However, authorities continue to examine Robinson’s digital communications and potential affiliations as they work to determine a full motive behind the attack.
The case has sparked widespread debate over political polarization, campus safety, and security at public events. Prosecutors say they will pursue the case to the fullest extent of the law.
Sources: BBC
