Presser: Kirk Suspect in Custody

by Sharon Rondeau

(Sep. 12, 2025) — At 10:04 a.m. EDT Friday, the FBI and Utah Gov. Spencer Cox convened a press conference to provide an update on the assassination Wednesday of activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University in Orem.

“We got ‘im,” Cox opened the presser.

The suspect “confessed” to family members that he shot Kirk, Cox said.

The suspect, Tyler Robinson, 22, arrived at UVU Wednesday morning, Cox said, in a gray Dodge Challenger, and was found in Washington County, UT Friday morning.

Robinson “had become more political” in recent years, Cox said a family member told him. In conversation, Robinson mentioned Kirk was coming to UVU in the near future and that Kirk was “full of hate.”

A roommate of Robinson’s was interviewed and revealed a discussion on the social-media site “Discord” regarding the bolt-action rifle used in the crime and that it was discarded “wrapped in a towel,” which was confirmed earlier in the investigation by officials.

Discord messages revealed Robinson said the “scope and rifle were unique.”

Robinson reportedly said he changed outfits “on the roof” but was found in the clothing he originally wore Wednesday morning to the university.

Of the progress made to date, “We are indebted to law enforcement across the state,” Cox said, in addition to the FBI. “I want to thank the public, who’s been so engaged…with sending in tips” and offering “help,” Cox said.

“I espeically want to thank the family of Charlie Kirk: Erika, Charlie’s parents, his children…,” Cox said. “We will be working very closely with them as we move through this process as well,” apparently meaning the issuance of charging documents.

“It is a terrible day for the State of Utah,” he said.

Kash Patel then spoke.

“This is what happens when you let good cops be cops,” he opened.

The FBI’s goal is to “bring justice” to Kirk’s family, he said.

He thanked President Trump for the resources necessary to find the suspect.

“In 33 hours, we have made historic progress for Charlie,” he said.

He thanked the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) and other law enforcers for “partnering” with the FBI and others.

On Wednesday FBI agents arrived at the scene 16 minutes after receiving notification of the shooting, Patel said.

The suspect was taken into custody at 10:00 p.m. local time Thursday, Patel said.

“The media” and “the public” were intrinsic to finding the suspect, he said.

The crime scene was “processed quickly,” Patel said, and he surveyed it. “Forensic eveidence has been seized and continues to be garnered,” he said, with some sent to the East Coast for analysis.

More than 11,000 leads were provided to the FBI, he said.

“I want to express my deep gratitude to the employees of the FBI,” Patel said. “The FBI answered that call…and we delivered…I’m proud to be the director of the FBI. We wil continue to work with state and local authorities,” he said.

“To my friend, Charlie Kirk, rest now, brother. We have the watch, and I’ll see you in Valhalla,” Patel said.

Utah County Sheriff Mike Smith expressed gratitude to all. UVU is located in Utah County.

The investigation “has been very taxing,” Smith said. He also thanked Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray and the federal government. “The FBI team has been extraordinary…in bringing this person to justice,” he said.

The Kirk family needs “your support and your prayers,” Smith said.

Patel gave a special thanks to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Department of Justice. “It’s an honor to be part of the Department of Justice,” he said.

Gov. Cox then spoke at length on his thoughts about political violence and its causes. He called on Americans to talk over their differences and shared a quote from Kirk which he said inspired him.