Washington, Sept 13 (V7N) — Authorities have arrested a former straight-A student in connection with the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk during a public event at Utah Valley University earlier this week.
 
The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, is accused of firing a single round from a high-powered bolt-action rifle, striking Kirk in the neck during his appearance in Orem on Sept. 10. Investigators said the bullet bore an inscription linked to an obscure online meme.
 
Robinson, who had no prior criminal history, was taken into custody at 10 p.m. on Sept. 11 after family members and a trusted family friend alerted authorities to his alleged confession. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox praised Robinson’s relatives for “doing the right thing” and helping law enforcement secure the arrest.
 
The FBI said Robinson was tied to the crime through a combination of surveillance footage, witness statements, and online communications, including messages believed to have been sent via Discord. The platform has disputed that claim. Agents also recovered the suspected murder weapon and evidence of shots fired from a rooftop near the crime scene.
 
Robinson, a graduate of Pine View High School in St. George, had previously scored a 34 out of 36 on the ACT and received a $32,000 scholarship to Utah State University, where he briefly enrolled in 2021. Neighbors and classmates described him as intelligent but quiet, noting that in recent years he had become increasingly political and outspoken about national issues.
 
Family social media posts depicted Robinson as the eldest of three sons in a close-knit household. His parents are registered Republicans, though Robinson himself had no declared party affiliation.
 
The shooting has drawn national attention, with President Donald Trump revealing Robinson’s arrest in a Sept. 12 television interview before law enforcement formally confirmed the news.
 
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