Utah Man Arrested in Shooting Death of Activist Charlie Kirk

A 22-year-old man from Utah has been arrested for the shooting death of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, who was killed on stage during a university event earlier this week, BBC reported. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, was caught late Thursday after a 33-hour manhunt. Police said his father convinced him to surrender, with the help of a family friend who is also a youth pastor.

Robinson’s arrest was first announced by former President Donald Trump, who demanded the death penalty. The killing shocked the country and highlighted America’s deep political divisions.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox said surveillance cameras showed Robinson arriving at Utah Valley University (UVU) hours before the attack. Kirk was shot from a distance of about 130 meters while speaking to students.

Investigators say Robinson confessed to his father and had earlier written messages on Discord about retrieving a rifle. The FBI later found the weapon, a Mauser .30-06 bolt action rifle, hidden in nearby woods. Casings linked to the gun had engravings like “hey fascist! CATCH!” and “Bella Ciao”, a reference to an Italian anti-fascist song.

Robinson faces charges of aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and firing a weapon. Prosecutors plan to file formal charges on Tuesday.

Students at UVU said they were relieved after the arrest, though many still feel shaken. The campus has remained closed since the shooting.

Public records show Robinson had registered as a nonpartisan voter and had not voted in recent presidential elections. He lived in St George, Utah, and studied in an electrical apprenticeship program. His father runs a cabinet business, and his mother works as a social worker. The family is active in the Mormon church.

BBC reported that the killing has drawn widespread attention and renewed discussions about political violence and safety on US campuses.