- Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old suspect in the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk, allegedly confessed to the killing in a message sent via Discord hours before his arrest
- Investigators have uncovered DNA evidence and disturbing online exchanges that may point to a motive, though Utah officials have yet to confirm one
- As Robinson prepares to face formal charges, including potential capital murder, federal authorities continue to probe whether he acted alone or as part of a broader conspiracy
The 22-year-old suspect in the fatal shooting of rightwing commentator Charlie Kirk appeared to take responsibility for the killing in a message sent via Discord, the chat platform has confirmed.
Tyler Robinson, who was arrested following a manhunt, allegedly posted a message to friends just hours before his apprehension, stating: “Hey guys, I have bad news for you all. It was me at UVU yesterday. i’m sorry for all of this.”
Source: Getty Images
The Washington Post first reported the existence of the messages on Monday, with CBS News later confirming that a Discord spokesperson had verified their authenticity.
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The messages emerged as Robinson prepared to face formal charges in a Utah court on Tuesday, including potential capital murder—a charge that carries the possibility of the death penalty.
Utah prosecutors prepare charges amid ongoing investigation
Robinson was arrested the day after Kirk’s killing on 10 September at Utah Valley University (UVU), reportedly surrendering with the help of a family friend who is a law enforcement officer. Utah county prosecutor Jeff Gray is expected to release formal charging documents following a morning press conference.
Robinson’s initial court appearance is scheduled for later on Tuesday, likely via video, where he will be arraigned. Federal charges may follow, according to deputy US attorney general Todd Blanche.
Authorities continue to investigate whether Robinson acted alone or as part of a broader conspiracy. Federal hate crime charges remain a possibility, though no motive has yet been disclosed by Utah officials. Senator JD Vance has publicly speculated that “leftwing extremism” was “part of the reason” Kirk was targeted, though he did not provide supporting evidence.
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FBI reveals DNA evidence and alleged motive
On Monday, FBI director Kash Patel told Fox News that Robinson had allegedly justified his actions through text messages, stating “some hatred cannot be negotiated with.” Patel added: “I will say what was found in terms of information, a text message exchange, where the suspect specifically stated he had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and he was gonna do that.”
Patel also revealed that DNA matching Robinson was found on a towel used to wrap the rifle believed to be the murder weapon, as well as on a screwdriver located at the rooftop perch from which the fatal shot was allegedly fired.
FBI co-deputy director Dan Bongino said Robinson appeared to have had an “obsession” with Kirk, citing a digital footprint that included “multiple warning signs.”
Bongino noted that co-workers had described Robinson as withdrawing from political discussions, prompting questions about whether prior knowledge of his behaviour had gone unreported. “Did they … hear it and think it was a joke? That is what we’re trying to find out now,” Bongino said. “If there is a larger network here, we will get that out to the public as soon as we can.”
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Discord denies platform was used to plan violence
Despite the messages attributed to Robinson, Discord stated that its internal investigation found “no evidence that the suspect planned this incident or promoted violence” on the platform.
According to law enforcement sources cited by CBS, at least three friends questioned Robinson about the FBI-released photos, which resembled him. Robinson reportedly did not deny the resemblance.
In one exchange, a friend warned Robinson to avoid McDonald’s, referencing Luigi Mangione, who was apprehended at the fast-food chain after a separate high-profile killing. Robinson allegedly replied: “Better also get rid of this manifesto and exact copy rifle I have lying around.”
The conversation reportedly concluded with Robinson writing: “im surrendering through a sheriff friend in a few moments, thanks for all the good times and laughs, you’ve all been so amazing, thank you all for everything.”
What Charlie Kirk held in hands on day he died
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Legit.ng earlier reported that Bishop Robert Barron recently paid tribute to Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old activist who lost his life during a rally.
The bishop’s emotional post on the X app quickly went viral as many users penned heartfelt words mourning the deceased.
Source: Legit.ng
