Authorities identify suspect in Charlie Kirk’s murder

New Delhi, Sep 12: US authorities have named 22-year-old Tyler Robinson as the suspect in the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, a close associate of President Donald Trump, at Utah Valley University in the US.

Robinson was taken into custody after reportedly confessing to his father, who notified investigators and helped secure him until police arrived.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox announced the arrest at a news conference, saying, “We got him.” He confirmed that a family member was involved in turning Robinson in and thanked his relatives for “doing the right thing.” Cox also said the family had earlier expressed concerns about Robinson becoming more political and openly hostile toward Kirk in recent years. Investigators recovered bullet casings at the scene, including one with an inscription that read, “Hey fascist! Catch!” The FBI and state officials said search warrants would be executed at Robinson’s residence as they gather further evidence. FBI Director Kash Patel praised the swift investigation, calling it “historic progress,” noting that the suspect was identified and apprehended within 33 hours. Officials stressed that the focus now shifts from the manhunt to preparing a strong prosecution case.

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, was shot dead during a public event at Utah Valley University in Orem on Thursday. He was 31. Kirk, founder of the conservative youth organisation Turning Point USA, had been addressing more than 3,000 people when a single shot struck him. He was taken to hospital by his security team but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.