NextFin news, Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old from Utah, was arrested on Friday for the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday afternoon, according to Utah officials and court records.
The manhunt for Robinson lasted over 30 hours and ended peacefully after a family member alerted a family friend, who then contacted law enforcement. Robinson reportedly confessed to the shooting to a relative before surrendering to authorities at a sheriff's office in southwest Utah.
Robinson faces charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, and obstruction of justice. Utah Governor Spencer Cox stated that charging documents are expected to be filed early next week.
Investigators found messages inscribed on unfired bullet casings near the crime scene, including the phrase "Bella ciao," an antifascist anthem popularized in recent years through media and video games. Authorities believe Robinson acted alone in the assassination.
The shooting occurred during a public event where Kirk was speaking before a crowd of thousands. The last person to speak with Kirk before the shooting was a liberal TikToker who questioned him about mass shootings involving transgender individuals.
Robinson was described by neighbors as "smart" and "quiet." He briefly attended Utah State University and was enrolled in an electrical apprenticeship program at Dixie Technical College. School records indicate he had a high academic performance.
Following the arrest, a vigil for Charlie Kirk was held in London, organized by Turning Point UK, the British branch of Kirk's conservative organization. Jack Ross, chief executive of Turning Point UK, stated that Kirk was likely assassinated because of his political views.
Former President Donald Trump announced the arrest on a Fox News program early Friday morning, attributing political violence in the country to the "radical left."
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather evidence related to the shooting and Robinson's motives.
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