Tyler James Robinson, a 22-year-old from Washington, Utah, has been identified as the suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a rally at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. Robinson was arrested on September 12, 2025, after a family member alerted authorities, following Robinson's alleged confession or implication in the crime.

Robinson graduated from a high school in St. George, Utah, in 2021, and briefly attended Utah State University before enrolling in an electrical apprenticeship program at Dixie Technical College. He lived with his parents, both of whom are employed locally. Family members described Robinson as quiet and intelligent, having been an honor roll student and scoring in the 99th percentile nationally. They noted that he had become increasingly political in recent years, expressing strong opposition to Kirk's views.

On September 10, 2025, during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University, Robinson allegedly fired a single shot from a rooftop about 200 yards away from the stage where Kirk was speaking. Surveillance footage and video released by the FBI showed Robinson on campus and jumping from the roof where the shot was believed to have originated. The ammunition recovered at the scene bore inscriptions such as "Hey fascist, catch!" and "Bella Ciao," a reference to an Italian anti-fascist song.

Robinson was apprehended in Washington County, approximately 250 miles from the shooting site in Orem. A probable cause affidavit states that the shooting put bystanders at great risk, potentially meeting the criteria for capital sentencing. Robinson faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, and obstruction of justice. The aggravated murder charge could make Robinson eligible for the death penalty, especially under Utah laws where endangering others in the act is a qualifying condition.

Authorities have not confirmed a clear motive, though family members reported that Robinson had expressed strong political opinions in recent years and voiced opposition to Charlie Kirk’s views. The investigation remains ongoing, with federal charges potentially being pursued.