Authorities release mugshot of Tyler Robinson in Charlie Kirk shooting case
Suspect identified as 22-year-old Utah man after FBI manhunt ends with arrest
Authorities have released the mugshot of Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old Utah man accused of fatally shooting conservative commentator Charlie Kirk during a university event earlier this week.
The shooting happened on Wednesday, September 10, at Utah Valley University, where nearly 3,000 people had gathered for Kirk’s appearance. About 20 minutes into the event, Kirk was addressing a question about mass shootings when a gunshot rang out from a nearby rooftop.
The 31-year-old collapsed on stage as the crowd rushed for safety. He was taken to a hospital but pronounced dead roughly 90 minutes later.
The search for the suspect
Law enforcement immediately launched a widespread manhunt, enlisting the FBI. On Thursday, investigators released surveillance footage showing a man jumping from a rooftop and fleeing the scene. A rifle and ammunition were later recovered in nearby woodland.
By Friday, Robinson was identified as the prime suspect. Utah Governor Spencer Cox announced the development at a press conference, saying, “We got him.”
How Robinson was found
Authorities said the investigation moved forward after one of Robinson’s relatives reached out to a family friend, who then contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. The family member reportedly told investigators that Robinson had confessed or suggested he was responsible.
Fox News correspondent Jacqui Heinrich reported that Robinson was taken into custody late Thursday night near St. George, Utah.
Family concerns before the attack
Governor Cox also revealed that Robinson’s relatives had noticed changes in his behavior in recent years, describing him as “more political.” During a recent dinner, Robinson reportedly discussed Kirk’s scheduled appearance and expressed strong opposition to his views, telling family members he believed Kirk was “full of hate and spreading hate.”
Robinson remains in custody as the investigation continues. Officials have not yet announced formal charges, but authorities say evidence recovered at the scene ties him to the shooting.
Charlie Kirk’s death has left political figures and communities across the country reacting to the violence, as attention now turns to how Robinson will face justice in the coming weeks.
