Who is Tyler Robinson? Trump Confirms Suspect in Charlie Kirk Assassination Case

Friday, September 12, 2025 – U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that the suspect in the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk is in custody. Authorities have identified the man as Tyler Robinson, 22, from Utah.

Trump Confirms Arrest

Speaking on Fox & Friends Friday morning, Trump said: “I think with a high degree of certainty we have him in custody.”

He explained that Robinson’s father encouraged him to surrender after confiding in a local minister who had ties to law enforcement. The minister contacted a U.S. Marshal, which led to Robinson being handed over to the FBI.

Trump also noted that the evidence was “strong” and suggested Robinson could face the death penalty if convicted.

The Shooting at Utah Valley University

The killing took place on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem.

Kirk, 31, was on stage for his American Comeback Tour, a nationwide series of college visits, when a single gunshot was fired. Witnesses described chaos as students screamed and ducked for cover. Security rushed to shield attendees while Kirk collapsed on stage.

Authorities later confirmed the shot came from a bolt-action rifle fired from nearly 200 yards away. The shooter had carefully chosen a hidden position on campus.

Kirk was rushed to a nearby hospital but died shortly after arrival.

Investigation and Manhunt

The FBI Salt Lake City field office, Orem Police, and Utah law enforcement agencies immediately launched a massive investigation.

• Video and photos of the suspect were released Thursday.

• A $100,000 reward was announced for tips leading to an arrest.

• One man was initially detained but later cleared.

• By Thursday night, investigators recovered a rifle believed to be the murder weapon.

Authorities later confirmed that Robinson was the prime suspect.

Reactions from Leaders

Political figures across the spectrum expressed shock.

• Governor Spencer Cox called the killing “an attack on democracy.”

• Vice President JD Vance canceled his plans to attend 9/11 memorial events in New York and instead traveled with his wife Usha to Salt Lake City. They joined Kirk’s family in carrying his casket aboard Air Force Two back to Arizona.

• Former President Trump described Kirk as a “brilliant young leader whose life was cut short by evil.”

Who Was Charlie Kirk?

Charlie Kirk was the founder of Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization. He rose to prominence as a strong supporter of Donald Trump and a frequent voice on issues like free speech, education, and cultural debates.

Kirk is survived by his wife Erika Frantzve, a former Miss Arizona, and their two young children.

Suspect Background: Who is Tyler Robinson?

So far, little has been publicly shared about Robinson’s background. Local media report he lived in Utah County and had attended community college. Neighbors described him as “quiet” but said he had recently become more withdrawn.

Officials have not yet confirmed a motive, but the FBI is reviewing Robinson’s online activity and personal history.

What Happens Next

The FBI is expected to file formal charges in federal court within days. Robinson could face charges of assassination, use of a firearm in a violent crime, and domestic terrorism.

The Justice Department is also considering whether to treat the case as a politically motivated assassination.

Kirk’s killing has already sparked a nationwide debate about political violence, gun safety, and the security of public figures at universities.