Police Arrest Suspect in Charlie Kirk Killing in Washington County

Police arrest man accused of political assassination on Utah Valley University campus

Lead Washington County Sheriff’s deputies and the FBI arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson in the town of Washington late Friday night, ending a two-day manhunt for the suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University in Orem.

Nut Graf Robinson was tracked to his family’s home in Washington County after a relative tipped off authorities, prompting a coordinated operation by local, state and federal agencies. The swift arrest highlights intense law-enforcement collaboration amid rising concerns over politically motivated violence.

Investigation and Tip Leading to Arrest

  • A family member contacted a trusted friend who alerted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, relaying Robinson’s alleged confession.
  • FBI Director Kash Patel and Utah Gov. Spencer Cox praised local deputies for their rapid response and shared intelligence.

Scene Secured in Washington County

Law enforcement established a perimeter around Robinson’s parents’ residence in Washington, sealing off roads and setting up evidence markers. Neighbors described a heavy presence of marked and unmarked vehicles as officers executed a lawful arrest warrant.

Surveillance and Forensics

  • Authorities confirmed Robinson arrived on UVU’s campus at 8:29 a.m. Wednesday in a gray Dodge Challenger and changed clothes before the shooting.
  • Investigators recovered a Mauser bolt-action rifle wrapped in a towel and unfired shell casings engraved with political messages, now undergoing forensic analysis by the FBI laboratory.

Political Reactions and Community Response

Gov. Cox condemned the violence as a watershed moment, urging Utahns to eschew vengeance. “The choice is ours: escalate or find an exit,” he stated. Local leaders echoed calls for calm and solidarity in the wake of the tragedy.

Next Steps

Robinson faces charges of aggravated murder and is held without bail in the Utah County jail. Prosecutors plan to file formal charges in the coming days, and the community awaits further details as the case proceeds through the courts.