Text Messages Helped Police Track Down Suspect In Charlie Kirk Shooting: Here's How

Last Updated:September 13, 2025, 06:19 IST

The investigation initially relied on minimal evidence, just a palm print, impressions of shoe soles, and a rifle found abandoned in nearby woods.

On Thursday, the FBI and state officials released additional photographs

In a shocking escalation of recent attacks on US political figures, conservative commentator and prominent Trump ally Charlie Kirk was fatally shot in the neck during a debate hosted by Turning Point USA at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.

The suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson of Utah, was arrested on Friday following an intense three-day manhunt. Initial leads in the case were sparse, limited to a palm print, shoe impressions, and a rifle discovered in nearby woods. According to authorities, the turning point came when “someone very close turned him in."

In the hours following the shooting, FBI and local law enforcement detained two individuals, who were later released after being cleared of involvement. A $100,000 reward was announced shortly after surveillance footage emerged showing the suspect attempting to flee the university campus.

By Thursday, the FBI and state officials had released photos and video footage of the suspect, appealing to the public for information. However, the investigation gained momentum only after a critical tip came from within the suspect’s inner circle.

At a press conference on Friday, Utah Governor Spencer Cox revealed that a family member of Robinson had confided in a friend, who then contacted authorities. The tip was reportedly prompted by troubling comments Robinson had made during a family dinner prior to September 10, stating that “Kirk was full of hate and spreading hate." Governor Cox praised the family’s decision, calling it “the right and courageous thing to do."

Additional evidence came from Robinson’s roommate, who shared Discord messages in which Robinson allegedly admitted to hiding a rifle, wrapped in a towel, in a bush. According to TMZ, Discord has indicated that the communications did not occur on its platform but were instead part of a handwritten note the 22-year-old left for his roommate. Additionally, Discord has removed Robinson’s account from the platform.

Former President Donald Trump, speaking to Fox News, said that further information was provided by Robinson’s father through a minister connected to law enforcement. “I hope he’s found guilty and gets the death penalty," Trump said. “Charlie Kirk was the finest person and didn’t deserve this."

According to Reuters, Robinson has no prior criminal record, no known political affiliations, and has not voted in recent elections. \

News world Text Messages Helped Police Track Down Suspect In Charlie Kirk Shooting: Here's How

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