Authorities have arrested a suspect in the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old political activist killed during a rally at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. The arrest has shaken Utah and drawn national attention.
The suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, is a scholarship student at Utah State University. Police confirmed he was taken into custody after confessing his actions to his father, Matt Robinson, a veteran of the Washington County Sheriff’s Department and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Matt Robinson secured his son and immediately alerted law enforcement, leading to Tyler’s arrest late on September 11 in southern Utah. His cooperation was central to the swift resolution. Authorities confirmed Tyler was wearing clothing consistent with surveillance images from the night of the shooting.
Former President Donald Trump reacted quickly, calling for the death penalty if Tyler is convicted. Investigators also confirmed that prosecutors will seek capital punishment in the case. Tyler’s mugshots were released publicly, further fueling nationwide attention.
Tyler’s family is well known in Washington, Utah, where they live in a six-bedroom home. His mother, Amber Robinson, works with Intermountain Support Coordination Services, assisting people with disabilities. Tyler is the eldest of three brothers.
Governor Spencer Cox and FBI Director Kash Patel addressed the public the morning after the arrest. Cox noted that Tyler had recently become more politically engaged, while Patel emphasized the rapid pace of the investigation. He praised the thousands of tips submitted and law enforcement’s swift progress.
At a recent family dinner, Tyler reportedly mentioned that Charlie Kirk would be speaking at Utah Valley University, a remark now viewed in a chilling light. Investigators continue to probe his motives.
For now, Tyler Robinson remains in custody as the legal process unfolds. Authorities stress that while the arrest marks major progress, the investigation is far from over.
