The man accused of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk has been identified as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson of Utah, according to the Associated Press.
The killing took place Wednesday evening during Kirk’s speech at Utah Valley University. Roughly 3,000 people were in attendance when a single gunshot rang out about 20 minutes into the event. Kirk, 31, was struck in the neck, collapsing on stage as chaos broke out. He was rushed to the hospital but died an hour and a half later.
Nationwide Manhunt
In the immediate aftermath, law enforcement launched an intensive search involving the FBI. On Thursday, investigators released security footage showing a suspect leaping from a rooftop and fleeing. A rifle and ammunition were later discovered in a wooded area near the venue.
Former President Donald Trump appeared on Fox News this morning, confirming that a suspect was in custody.
Taken Into Custody
Robinson was reportedly apprehended near St. George, Utah, late Thursday night. Fox News correspondent Jacqui Heinrich said sources told her the suspect “walked in” after 11 p.m.
During his Fox interview, Trump suggested Robinson’s father may have been instrumental in his capture.
“Somebody close to him turned him in,” Trump explained. “They went to his father and then to a U.S. marshal … and the father persuaded his son that it was over.”
Trump Calls for Harshest Penalty
Trump also demanded the strongest possible punishment, noting that Utah still allows capital punishment.
“I hope he’s convicted and I hope he gets the death penalty,” Trump said. “Charlie Kirk was one of the finest people, and he did not deserve this.”