Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Sep 12: In a swift and high-profile arrest, U.S. federal and local authorities on Friday confirmed that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson of Utah has been taken into custody in connection with the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Robinson was apprehended in Washington County, Utah, nearly 400 km from the scene of the crime at Utah Valley University, where Kirk was gunned down during a campus event on Wednesday.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox, addressing a press conference, announced the arrest with the words, “We got him.” He revealed that digital evidence, including messages from a social media app, had helped investigators trace the suspect. Authorities said Robinson had recently shown increased political radicalization and was openly opposed to Kirk’s ideology.

A critical lead came from within the suspect’s circle: a family member reported Robinson’s confession to a friend, who then tipped off the police. Officials confirmed that Robinson is believed to have acted alone, and no further arrests are expected.

Among the evidence recovered at the scene were bullet casings with inscriptions — one reportedly etched with the words, “Hey fascist! catch!” — suggesting a politically charged motive behind the attack.

FBI director Kash Patel praised the coordination between agencies, noting that Robinson was captured just 33 hours after the shooting. “Last night, the suspect was taken into custody at 10 pm local time,” Patel said, calling it a “major breakthrough.”

President Donald Trump, earlier in the day, also confirmed the arrest and used the occasion to criticise left-wing extremism. “The radicals on the left are the problem — they’re vicious and politically savvy,” Trump said. He described the killing as a tragic consequence of growing political violence.

Charlie Kirk, 31, was the founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), a powerful conservative student organisation that played a pivotal role in mobilising young voters during Trump’s 2024 re-election campaign. Kirk was delivering remarks at a university event when shots were fired, prompting chaos among attendees. He was rushed to hospital but succumbed to his injuries soon after.

The killing has shocked political circles and reignited debate over ideological extremism and free speech on college campuses. With the suspect now in custody, authorities have pledged a thorough investigation into any deeper motivations or affiliations behind the attack.