FBI Links Charlie Kirk's Death to Suspected Gunman via DNA Evidence

Tue Oct 21 2025 02:11:07 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A suspect in the shooting death of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk has been identified through DNA evidence. The FBI reveals new details regarding the investigation, including the discovery of a note threatening Kirk.

Tyler Robinson, 22, has been arrested in connection with the shooting death of Charlie Kirk at a Utah event. DNA from a towel wrapped around the gun used and a screwdriver found at the scene has matched Robinson. The FBI also uncovered a note at Robinson's home expressing intent to harm Kirk. A formal charge against Robinson is expected soon, while a motive remains unclear.

DNA on a towel wrapped around the suspected gun used to kill Charlie Kirk has been matched to the suspect in custody, the director of the FBI said on Monday.

Tyler Robinson, 22, was arrested over the death of the right-wing influencer at an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. A bolt-action rifle was recovered near the shooting, and a screwdriver was found on the roof from where the fatal shot was fired.

I can report today that the DNA hits from the towel that was wrapped around the firearm and the DNA on the screwdriver are positively processed for the suspect in custody, Kash Patel told Fox and Friends.

A formal charge is expected this week. A motive has yet to be determined.

The FBI director, who has faced scrutiny over his handling of the case, also referenced a note discovered at the suspect's home, which vowed to 'take out' Kirk.

It's basically saying... 'I have the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk', and I'm going to take it; that note was written before the shooting, said Patel.

He added, Even though it has been destroyed, we have found forensic evidence of the note.

According to a Utah County Sheriff inmate booking sheet, Robinson is accused of aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm.

This breakthrough follows comments from Utah Governor Spencer Cox, who noted that Robinson - persuaded to surrender by his father - had been uncooperative with investigators and had not confessed to the shooting.

Vice President JD Vance announced he will host Monday's episode of Kirk's podcast in tribute to his friend and Trump ally. Kirk rose to prominence as a controversial figure after founding the right-wing group Turning Point USA and engaging in campus debates before his untimely death.