NextFin news, Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old man from Utah, was arrested on Thursday night in Washington County, Utah, for the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University in Orem on Wednesday afternoon, authorities confirmed.
The shooting occurred during a public event at Utah Valley University, where Kirk was addressing a crowd. The suspect allegedly acted alone, according to court records and statements from Utah officials.
The manhunt for Robinson lasted over 30 hours and ended peacefully after a family member of the suspect contacted a family friend, who then alerted local law enforcement. Robinson surrendered without incident at a sheriff’s office, Utah Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason said.
Governor Spencer Cox of Utah held a news conference on Thursday, explaining that investigators learned from interviews with a relative and a roommate that Robinson had criticized Kirk shortly before the shooting and had sent messages about retrieving a rifle from a drop point.
Investigators also found bullet casings near the campus with inscriptions referencing antifascist symbolism and internet memes, including the phrase "Bella ciao," an Italian antifascist anthem popularized in recent years by media and video games.
Robinson is being held in Utah County Jail on suspicion of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, and obstruction of justice. Utah law requires charging documents to be filed within three days, expected early next week.
Charlie Kirk was a prominent conservative activist and founder of the youth political organization Turning Point USA. His death has prompted vigils, including one held in London by Turning Point UK, where supporters gathered to remember him.
Former President Donald Trump publicly announced Robinson's arrest on Thursday morning during a television appearance, attributing political violence to the "radical left." Utah officials provided more detailed information later that day.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses related to the shooting incident.
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