Tyler Robinson in Custody; Utah Governor Says He Refuses to Cooperate
Authorities confirmed on Friday that Tyler Robinson, 22, has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. While the investigation into the high-profile killing continues, Utah Governor Spencer Cox said on Sunday that Robinson has not been cooperating with law enforcement.
Manhunt and Capture: “We Got Him”
The shooting took place on Wednesday, September 10, at Utah Valley University (UVU), where Kirk was participating in a Q&A session. A rifle shot fired from a rooftop struck him in the neck, creating panic among the roughly 3,000 people present. He was rushed to a hospital but died about 90 minutes later.
Law enforcement launched an extensive manhunt, combing rooftops, parking lots, and wooded areas nearby. A rifle believed to be the murder weapon was recovered not far from the scene. Photos of the suspect circulated widely online, paired with a $100,000 reward for information. Roughly 33 hours after the shooting, officials held a press conference to announce an arrest.
“We got him,” Governor Cox declared, explaining that a tip from within Robinson’s own family played a key role. According to Cox, a relative confided in a family friend, who then contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office to report that Robinson had either admitted to or strongly implied being behind the shooting.
Motive and Early Digital Evidence
During the briefing, Governor Cox shared information investigators had gathered from Robinson’s relatives. They described how Robinson had become increasingly political in recent years, and during a family dinner not long before September 10, he mentioned that Charlie Kirk would be appearing at UVU. The conversation reportedly included negative views toward Kirk and his political positions.
Investigators are also reviewing electronic communications allegedly linked to Robinson. According to Cox, a roommate provided screenshots of exchanges with someone saved as “Tyler.” These messages included references to picking up a rifle from a “drop point,” leaving the weapon concealed in a bush wrapped in a towel, and keeping watch on the location. Investigators photographed the messages for evidence.
Governor: Robinson Isn’t Talking, But Others Are
On Sunday, Governor Cox gave an update in interviews on national networks, making it clear that Robinson has not been cooperating.
“He has not confessed to authorities. He is not cooperating, but all the people around him are,” Cox said, stressing the importance of those who are assisting.
He noted that Robinson’s roommate—described as both a partner and romantic interest—has been particularly forthcoming.
“This partner has been incredibly cooperative, had no idea this was happening, and is fully working with investigators right now,” Cox explained.
When pressed on whether the roommate’s gender identity might be relevant to the case, Cox cautioned against assumptions, instead emphasizing the importance of forensic evidence.
“That’s what we’re trying to figure out,” Cox said. “We have shell casings, other forensic materials, and we’re carefully piecing it together.”
What Investigators Are Focusing On
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Timeline: Establishing Robinson’s actions before, during, and after the shooting.
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Forensics: Examining the recovered rifle, shell casings, and other physical evidence.
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Digital records: Analyzing communications that may reveal planning or intent.
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Motive: Comparing statements from family, the roommate, and acquaintances against digital and physical findings.
Ongoing Case and Next Steps
Officials have made it clear that while Robinson remains in custody, the case is far from over. He is currently being held without bail on charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious injury, and obstruction of justice. Authorities stressed that these are initial charges, and more could follow as the investigation develops.
The focus now is on building an airtight case. Prosecutors are waiting on forensic results, reviewing digital evidence, and interviewing additional witnesses to ensure that Robinson faces full accountability.
Governor Cox summarized the state’s approach simply: “This is a methodical, step-by-step process. We’re going to let the facts lead us. Justice for Charlie Kirk, his family, and everyone impacted demands nothing less.”
For now, Robinson’s refusal to cooperate stands in stark contrast to the growing number of people close to him who are stepping forward. Investigators say that cooperation, combined with physical and digital evidence, will likely play a decisive role in ensuring justice is served.