Charlie Kirk, the influential founder of Turning Point USA, was tragically assassinated on September 10 while delivering a speech at Utah Valley University. The fatal shooting, which occurred during the first stop of Kirk’s new campus debate tour, sent shockwaves through the nation. The FBI swiftly launched an investigation, culminating in the arrest of 22-year-old Tyler Robinson on September 11.

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed crucial breakthroughs in the case. DNA recovered from a towel wrapped around the suspected murder weapon and from a screwdriver found at a sniper’s nest positively matched Robinson. Speaking on Fox News, Patel also revealed the discovery of a handwritten note at Robinson’s home. In this note, Robinson allegedly expressed his intent to “take out” Kirk due to his opposition to the activist’s political views. Although the note was later destroyed, Patel affirmed that it had been forensically documented and corroborated during FBI questioning, leaving no doubt about its existence and content. The high-powered hunting rifle used in the attack was located in a wooded area near the crime scene, while the screwdriver was found on the roof from which the fatal shot was fired.

Further evidence suggests a politically charged motive behind the assassination. Robinson’s family informed investigators of his subscription to left-wing ideology. Ammunition recovered alongside the rifle was notably engraved with antifascist slogans, reinforcing the ideological dimension of the crime. Despite the mounting evidence, Robinson has consistently refused to cooperate with authorities since his arrest and is currently being held under special watch as prosecutors prepare their case. His first court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday. According to a Utah County Sheriff inmate booking sheet obtained by the BBC, Robinson is accused of aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox shed light on Robinson's behavior prior to his arrest, revealing that Robinson had joked about his resemblance to images of the suspected gunman in private Discord chats following Kirk's death. In one particular exchange, Robinson attempted to dismiss suspicions by writing, “My doppelganger’s trying to get me in trouble.” Hours later, after his father urged him to surrender, Robinson was arrested subsequent to a family friend alerting police. The investigation has also seen assistance from Robinson's roommate and partner, who is believed to be transgender.

The aftermath of Kirk's death has seen national figures respond. President Donald Trump posthumously awarded Kirk the Medal of Freedom and vociferously demanded that Robinson face the death penalty. Vice President JD Vance announced his intention to host Monday’s episode of Kirk’s podcast, dedicating it as a tribute to his friend and long-time Trump ally. Kirk, a polarizing figure in the US, rose to national prominence through his founding of Turning Point USA, a right-wing youth political group, and effectively used his online platforms to garner support for often controversial viewpoints. He is survived by his wife, Erika, and their two young children.