Utah suspect Tyler Robinson charged with capital murder after confessing in texts to shooting Charlie Kirk during university event.
Published Time: 09-17-2025, 14:30 EDT
Court filings released this week shed new light on the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Prosecutors say the accused gunman, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, confessed in text messages to his partner shortly after the fatal shooting, acknowledging responsibility for the attack. The case has heightened debate over political violence in the United States and raised questions about potential accomplices.
Text Messages Reveal Confession
According to charging documents, Robinson fired a single round from a bolt-action rifle on September 10, striking Kirk in the neck while he spoke to roughly 3,000 attendees at an outdoor campus event in Orem, about 40 miles south of Salt Lake City.
Prosecutors allege Robinson later texted his partner, with whom he shared a home near St. George, Utah, admitting, “I am, I’m sorry,” after being asked whether he was the shooter. Investigators also discovered a handwritten note under Robinson’s computer keyboard that read: “I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I’m going to take it.”
Authorities said the partner initially did not report the confession but later provided information as the investigation progressed.
Arrest After Family Intervention
Robinson evaded police for nearly 36 hours until his parents recognized him in a photo released by law enforcement. Prosecutors say his parents confronted him, persuaded him not to harm himself, and arranged for his peaceful surrender with the help of a retired sheriff’s deputy.
Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray confirmed that DNA on the recovered rifle matched Robinson. The weapon reportedly belonged to his grandfather.
Robinson now faces charges of capital murder, which could carry the death penalty, as well as multiple felony counts, including obstructing justice, witness tampering, and firearm-related charges.
Court Appearance and Charges
Robinson appeared briefly by video before a judge on Tuesday, acknowledging the charges but declining to speak in detail. The court is expected to appoint an attorney to represent him.
In addition to capital murder, Robinson faces charges related to witness tampering for instructing his partner to delete text messages and remain silent if approached by police. Prosecutors also filed enhancements, citing that the shooting occurred near children and may have been motivated by political beliefs.
Motive Under Investigation
Authorities have not confirmed a clear motive for the assassination. Court documents suggest Robinson told his partner he had “enough of [Kirk’s] hatred,” adding that “some hate can’t be negotiated out.” Prosecutors say he had been planning the attack for more than a week.
When asked directly whether Robinson’s actions were linked to Kirk’s controversial views on transgender issues, Attorney Gray responded: “That is for a jury to decide.”
Political and Personal Shifts
According to investigators, Robinson’s family reported significant political changes in recent years. His mother said he had moved sharply left in his views, expressing support for LGBTQ+ rights and often clashing with his father, a strong supporter of former President Donald Trump.
Robinson lived with a partner who investigators identified as transgender, though officials have not confirmed whether that relationship factored into his motivations.
Digital Footprint and Evidence Trail
Authorities say Robinson exchanged additional texts with his partner after the shooting, describing efforts to retrieve his rifle from a “drop point” near the scene, but noting police activity made recovery difficult. He allegedly told his partner: “To be honest I had hoped to keep this secret till I died of old age. I am sorry to involve you.”
Prosecutors allege Robinson discarded clothing, attempted to destroy evidence, and asked his partner for help concealing materials.
Federal and Wider Investigations
FBI Director Kash Patel told lawmakers Tuesday that investigators are reviewing Robinson’s activity on Discord, where he reportedly participated in a gaming chatroom involving more than 20 individuals. Authorities are examining whether others knew about or assisted in the crime.
Patel emphasized that “anyone and everyone” connected to the case is being investigated.
Charlie Kirk’s Legacy
Charlie Kirk, 31, was a nationally recognized conservative commentator, podcast host, and founder of Turning Point USA, one of the largest right-leaning youth organizations in the United States.
A father of two, Kirk was credited with mobilizing young evangelical voters and strengthening Republican support ahead of Donald Trump’s 2024 return to the White House. His campus events often drew large crowds and were known for unscripted question-and-answer sessions with students.
National Debate on Political Violence
Kirk’s killing has reignited national conversations about polarization, political rhetoric, and the rise of targeted violence. Some critics of Kirk’s views on gender and social issues voiced mixed reactions to his death, while many Republican leaders called for stronger measures against political violence and condemned what they saw as attempts to dishonor his legacy.
Public and private institutions have also faced backlash, with some employees reportedly disciplined or dismissed for social media posts perceived as critical of Kirk following his death.
What Comes Next
As the legal process unfolds, prosecutors are preparing evidence for trial while law enforcement continues to investigate Robinson’s communications and possible network of support.
Authorities stress that the case remains active, with more details expected to emerge regarding Robinson’s planning, motivations, and whether others may face charges.
Source: AP News – As officials searched for Charlie Kirk’s shooter, suspect confessed to his partner, prosecutor says
