Donald Trump has announced that the suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk is now in custody, following a manhunt lasting more than 24 hours.
Speaking during a live broadcast of Fox & Friends on Fox News, the US president said: “With a high degree of certainty, we have him in custody.”
Tyler Robinson Named as Suspect
The FBI confirmed that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson has been arrested in connection with Kirk’s death.
Authorities said Robinson was taken into custody at approximately 111 p.m. on Thursday night, following a report from his father, who reportedly turned him in.
Confession to Family Member
Officials said Robinson confessed to his father before his arrest. Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed that a family member alerted authorities after Robinson’s growing political activity raised concerns.
Tribute From President Trump
Earlier, Trump paid tribute to Kirk, who was a prominent conservative activist and the founder of Turning Point USA. The president announced that Kirk would posthumously receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honour in the US.
Shooting at Utah Valley University
Kirk was shot while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University ty 12:20 p.m. on Wednesday. He was rushed to the hospital but later died from his injuries.
Bullet Casings With Messages
Investigators recovered a firearm used in the shooting along with several unfired cartridges. Each casing was engraved with messages, including anti-fascist slogans and references to online culture.
Anti-Fascist and Cultural References
Inscriptions on the casings reportedly included phrases such as “Hey fascist! Catch!”, “Bella ciao” and popular online trolling lines. Some symbols referenced video game sequences and internet memes.
Video Game and Meme Symbolism
Other markings were linked to the video game Helldivers 2 and online roleplay culture, including references to furries and copypasta stories circulating on social media.
Governor Confirms Family Tip-Off
Governor Spencer Cox said a family member contacted a friend, who then informed law enforcement, leading to Robinson’s arrest.
Father Reportedly Involved
Reports indicate that Robinson’s father, Matt, a 27-year veteran of the Washington County Sheriff’s Department, was the family member who alerted authorities.
Investigators Interview the Family
Investigators interviewed the family member and confirmed that Robinson had become increasingly politically active in recent years.
Ongoing FBI Investigation
The FBI continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including potential motives and whether others were involved.
Public Reaction to Arrest
Kirk’s death and the subsequent arrest have prompted widespread reactions from both conservative and liberal circles in the US.
President Trump’s First Tribute
Trump reiterated his admiration for Kirk, describing him as a “patriot” who inspired millions of young Americans.
Case Remains Under Review
The investigation into the killing remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence and assess the full circumstances of the incident.
