Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old accused of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk during an event at Utah Valley University, has retained legal counsel and is no longer cooperating with investigators, according to reports. Initially, Robinson had engaged with law enforcement, but sources say he has since gone silent. He is currently being held without bail at Utah County Jail and is expected to face multiple charges, including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, and obstruction of justice.
Court records indicate Robinson had no prior criminal convictions. Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed that authorities have three days to file formal charges and stated that Robinson is believed to have acted alone. Cox also revealed that, prior to the incident, Robinson reportedly expressed negative opinions about Kirk during a family dinner. A family member told investigators that Robinson had become increasingly political in recent years and had criticized Kirk’s views as promoting hate.
Robinson was arrested Thursday night after his father recognized him in images released by the FBI. Although Robinson initially expressed suicidal thoughts, he was ultimately persuaded to surrender following a conversation with a local youth minister who also collaborates with the U.S. Marshals Service. His roommate later cooperated with investigators, directing them to Robinson’s Discord messages. The messages allegedly included discussions about modifying a rifle, hiding it near campus, and preparing for the incident.
Law enforcement recovered a Mauser Model 98 bolt-action rifle with a mounted scope from a wooded area near the university. The weapon was wrapped in a towel and matched the descriptions given in the digital communications. Prosecutors are using these findings as part of the ongoing investigation and expected criminal proceedings.
During the campus event, Kirk was answering a question posed by Hunter Kozak, a student and YouTuber, regarding mass shootings. A single gunshot struck Kirk in the neck, leading to his death. Kozak later addressed the incident on social media, expressing horror at what transpired. Despite strongly disagreeing with Kirk’s views, he emphasized the importance of peaceful dialogue and condemned violence as a response to political differences.
Kozak also highlighted the human cost of the tragedy, noting that Kirk leaves behind a wife and two young children. His emotional statement called for empathy, reminding the public that disagreement should never overshadow basic human respect. As legal proceedings continue, public reaction has remained deeply divided, with ongoing discussions about political rhetoric, responsibility, and the importance of civil discourse.
