Authorities have charged 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson with aggravated murder following the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. According to charging documents, family members noted a shift in Robinson's behavior, reporting that he had become more political and viewed Kirk as a proponent of hate.
Robinson, a resident of Washington, Utah, was arrested and is currently being held without bail. Although he is registered to vote, records show he has not participated in the last two general elections. His family, who are registered Republicans, own a granite countertop business and reside in a six-bedroom home.
Throughout his youth, Robinson was recognized as an honor roll student, scoring in the 99th percentile on standardized tests. He had been admitted to Utah State University on a prestigious scholarship but left school after a single semester. More recently, he had been pursuing a third-year electrical apprenticeship at Dixie Technical College in St. George.
Officials reported that Robinson's family had previously expressed concern over his changing political views, especially in light of a conversation during a family dinner in which he discussed Kirk's planned appearance at UVU. Following the arrest, it was revealed that Robinson had confided in a family friend about his involvement in the shooting, prompting the authorities to act.
Evidence surfaced including messages uncovered by a friend that indicated Robinson was acquiring a firearm. During his arrest, he was wearing clothing similar to that of the suspect captured on surveillance footage. Additionally, some of the ammunition found at the scene featured engravings linked to meme culture and references to fascism.
As the investigation unfolds, the community of Utah Valley University continues to mourn the loss of Kirk, who was commemorated at a vigil attended by many.
