The man accused of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk has been identified as Tyler Robinson, 22, a Utah native who had been living with his parents for a long time. Mr. Robinson was taken into custody on 12 September after a family member recognized him in surveillance images, a development investigators described as pivotal in ending a nationwide manhunt. That family member was apparently Mr. Robinson's father, who encouraged him to turn himself in, according to CBS News. At a press briefing announcing the arrest, FBI officials declined to discuss Mr. Robinson's background, political leanings, or possible motive, saying the investigation was ongoing. They expressed confidence in having the right individual in custody but noted they were still working to establish the full picture of who he is and why he acted.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox mentioned insights from a family member that Mr. Robinson had recently become more politically aware and had expressed strong negative feelings about Kirk before the shooting. Public records indicate Robinson had previously registered as an unaffiliated voter, while his parents are registered Republicans. Additionally, he reportedly attended Utah State University briefly.

Investigators say Mr. Robinson was embedded in online culture, as evidenced by unusual inscriptions found on shell casings related to the incident. These references suggest a mix of trolling humor and anti-fascist sentiments. This case is described as one of the most significant political killings in recent U.S. history, as authorities continue to explore Robinson’s motives and online activities.