The Governor of Utah, Spencer Cox, on Friday confirmed the arrest of 31-year-old Tyler Robinson, who is accused of killing U.S. right-wing activist Charlie Kirk during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem.
According to the AFP, “We got him,” Governor Cox declared at a press conference, noting that Robinson’s arrest followed a tip-off from one of his relatives.
“On the evening of September 11th, a family member of Tyler Robinson reached out to a family friend, who contacted the Washington County sheriff’s office with information that Robinson had confessed to them or implied that he had committed the incident.”
U.S. President Donald Trump also announced the breakthrough earlier on Friday, revealing that “somebody very close to him turned him in.” Trump further demanded the death penalty for the suspect.
Kirk, a prominent conservative figure and founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot in the neck on Wednesday while addressing a large audience.
He was known for his outspoken views on race, gender, immigration, gun rights, and religion. Though often divisive, he was praised even by critics for his willingness to engage in public debates.
Investigators said the suspect left behind unused cartridges inscribed with anti-fascist slogans, including one that read, “Hey, fascist! Catch!” Another was marked “Bella ciao,” a reference to an Italian resistance anthem from World War II. Authorities also recovered the suspected murder weapon—a high-powered hunting rifle.
The FBI confirmed Robinson was arrested late Thursday after a 33-hour manhunt. “The arrest was made at 10:00 pm,” FBI Director Kash Patel said.
The killing has sparked deep emotions across the United States. At Utah Valley University, students expressed their shock.
“Watching it happen made me sick to my stomach,” said 26-year-old Dave Sanchez. Another mourner, Jonathan Silva, 35, described the tragedy as “totally surreal.”
Hundreds gathered at a vigil in Orem Park on Thursday evening, many wearing red MAGA hats and holding American flags, to pay tribute to the slain activist.
Reflecting the political weight of the murder, Vice President JD Vance accompanied Kirk’s casket on Air Force 2 as it was flown to his home city of Phoenix. Supporters have hailed him as a martyr.
