United States authorities have arrested the young man accused of killing conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, bringing an intense nationwide search to a dramatic close.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed the arrest of 22-year-old Tyler Robinson during a Friday morning briefing. He opened with the words: “We got him.”
Cox explained that a family friend contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office after Robinson confessed or implied he carried out the shooting.
Investigators later discovered messages on Discord where Robinson described the rifle he used and even engravings on his bullets, including “Hey, fascist! Catch!” and “Bella Ciao,” an anti-fascist slogan.
The findings fuelled debate about online extremism and radicalisation in America.
A relative told investigators that Robinson had become more politically charged in recent years.
Trump Confirms Arrest
Before Cox spoke publicly, US President Donald Trump had already hinted at the arrest during an interview on Fox News. “I think, with a high degree of certainty, we have him,” Trump said.
The president revealed that the suspect was handed over to law enforcement by a minister connected to the police. Trump added: “I hope he gets the death penalty.”
Trump, visibly shaken, described Kirk as “the finest person” and “like a son” to him. He credited the 30-year-old with helping mobilise young voters through social media. “I’ve never seen young people go to one person like they did to Charlie,” Trump said.
He also announced plans to attend Kirk’s funeral.
The Attack
Charlie Kirk was shot on Wednesday while addressing students at Utah Valley University in Orem. The shooting happened just before he was to begin a debate titled “Prove Me Wrong.”
The FBI had earlier released grainy images of the suspected shooter. The man wore a black long-sleeved shirt with a bald eagle across a US flag, a cap, and dark sunglasses. Another video showed him sprinting across a rooftop before climbing down.
Trump later suggested that Robinson’s father may have driven him to a police station to surrender. “Somebody this close recognises even a little tilt of the head, which nobody else would do,” Trump told Fox
The assassination has raised new fears about political violence in America. Kirk, a close Trump ally, was known for drawing young conservatives into Republican politics. His sudden death has left many asking whether rallies and political events can still go on safely.
But Trump insisted they must continue. “You have to go forward,” he said, when asked if appearances should be cancelled.
He ordered flags flown at half-mast, calling Kirk a martyr for conservative ideals. Vigils across Utah drew hundreds of supporters in MAGA caps waving American flags.
Widow Steps Into Big Shoes
The widow of Charlie Kirk has vowed to carry on her husband’s movement after his assassination in Utah.
A tearful Erika Kirk called her husband “the perfect father…the perfect husband,” vowing “the movement my husband built will not die.”
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