Authorities say the 22-year-old accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk showed signs of political extremism in recent years.
Tyler Robinson, 22, is in custody after being named the suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk during a campus event in Utah. Officials described the attack as a “political assassination,” pointing to evidence that suggests Robinson’s views had shifted in recent years.
Investigators reported that Robinson’s ammunition carried anti-fascist engravings, including messages such as “Hey fascist! Catch!” and lyrics referencing an Italian resistance song. Authorities said the weapon, a bolt-action rifle, was recovered near the scene along with engraved bullet casings bearing both political and mocking phrases.
Robinson, a native of Washington, Utah, excelled academically in high school and earned a scholarship to attend Utah State University but left after one semester. Records show he is registered as an unaffiliated voter and had not participated in the last two general elections.
Law enforcement began searching for Robinson following the shooting at Utah Valley University, which sparked a 33-hour manhunt. He was eventually taken into custody late Thursday night after a tip from a family acquaintance who said Robinson had confessed or implied involvement in the attack.
Family members told investigators that Robinson had increasingly voiced hostility toward Kirk in recent years, including comments at a family dinner where he criticized the activist’s views. Officials continue to investigate Robinson’s background, motivations, and any potential ties to extremist ideology.
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