Investigators have revealed new evidence linking Tyler Robinson to the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah. Authorities say Robinson left both a written and digital trail suggesting his intent to assassinate Kirk, while forensic analysis has placed him at the scene of the shooting.
Before the attack, Robinson allegedly sent a text message in which he stated his plan to kill Kirk. Investigators also believe he wrote a physical note declaring he had the “opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk” and would do so. Though the note was later destroyed, forensic experts confirmed its existence, and its contents have been corroborated through witness interviews.
Robinson, 22, is accused of firing a single rifle shot that killed Kirk during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, roughly 40 miles south of Salt Lake City. He is expected to be formally charged on Tuesday and will make his first court appearance via video link from jail.
Evidence tying Robinson to the crime scene includes DNA traces found on a towel wrapped around the suspected murder weapon, as well as on a screwdriver recovered from the rooftop where the shooter is believed to have positioned himself. Authorities continue to examine whether Robinson had outside help, though early findings suggest he acted alone.
Further raising suspicion, Robinson is reported to have confessed privately on the messaging platform Discord shortly before his arrest. Screenshots of his messages show him telling friends, “It was me at UVU yesterday. I’m sorry for all of this,” in apparent reference to the shooting.
The motive for the killing remains unclear. Robinson has not cooperated with investigators, but law enforcement is interviewing his family and friends to understand his state of mind leading up to the attack.
Kirk’s death has shocked a politically polarized nation already experiencing a rise in politically motivated violence. The killing has drawn bipartisan condemnation, with leaders across the political spectrum describing it as an indefensible act. However, divisions have emerged in how different groups frame the incident. Some conservative figures, including former President Donald Trump, have blamed left-wing movements for fostering hostility, while Democrats point out that political violence has also targeted liberal leaders in recent years.
The debate over Kirk’s legacy has further highlighted the nation’s polarization. Supporters remember him as a passionate advocate for conservative youth, while critics remain divided on how his confrontational style shaped public discourse.
