Trump confirms arrest of suspected killer of Charlie Kirk

Trump Confirms Arrest in Charlie Kirk Assassination: Nation Reels from Political Violence

In a dramatic turn of events that has gripped the United States, President Donald Trump confirmed on Friday, September 12, 2025, that the suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk is now in custody.

The announcement came during a live interview on Fox & Friends, where Trump stated with “a high degree of certainty” that authorities had apprehended the individual believed responsible for the killing.

Charlie Kirk, 31, founder of Turning Point USA and a prominent figure in conservative youth politics, was shot on Wednesday, September 10, while speaking at Utah Valley University as part of his “Prove Me Wrong” campus tour. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as Kirk was struck in the neck by a single bullet fired from a rooftop, prompting thousands of attendees to flee in panic. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Utah resident Tyler Robinson, was reportedly turned in by his father after being recognized from FBI-released surveillance footage. Trump revealed that a minister, described as “a person of faith” who was also involved with law enforcement, played a key role in convincing Robinson to surrender. The suspect was driven to a police headquarters and taken into custody without incident.

Authorities recovered a high-powered bolt-action rifle wrapped in a towel in nearby woods, believed to be the weapon used in the assassination. Forensic evidence including palm prints, footprints, and a forearm imprint were collected from the rooftop where the shot was fired. Investigators also disclosed that Robinson had inscribed messages on the bullet casings, though the content of those inscriptions has not yet been made public.

The FBI and Utah Department of Public Safety are expected to release further details in a formal briefing. Discussions are underway to bring federal charges against Robinson, with the possibility of the death penalty being pursued under U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi. Utah Governor Spencer Cox has already declared the state’s intent to seek capital punishment.

The assassination has sparked bipartisan condemnation and widespread mourning. Former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden issued heartfelt tributes, denouncing political violence and expressing condolences to Kirk’s family. Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the United Kingdom also weighed in, calling the killing “heartbreaking” and emphasizing the importance of free and open debate.

President Trump announced that Charlie Kirk will be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, calling him a “charismatic advocate” for conservative values and crediting him with energizing young Republican voters. Trump is expected to attend Kirk’s funeral in Arizona, where Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha have already accompanied the family in transporting Kirk’s body aboard Air Force Two.

Utah Valley University remains closed as investigators continue to process the crime scene. The university’s president, Astrid S. Tuminez, released a video message expressing sorrow and solidarity, stating, “Love is stronger than fear.”

As the nation grapples with the implications of this targeted attack, many are reflecting on the growing threat of political violence. Charlie Kirk’s death marks a dark moment in American public life, one that has united voices across the political spectrum in grief and resolve. The investigation remains active, with more updates expected as authorities finalize charges and release additional findings.