Suspect in Charlie Kirk Killing Refuses to Cooperate, Says Utah Governor
Authorities confirmed Friday that 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, the man suspected of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk, is now in custody. The manhunt lasted 33 hours after Kirk was struck during an event at Utah Valley University last Wednesday.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox announced the arrest, crediting Robinson’s own family for coming forward. “A family member reached out to a friend who contacted the sheriff’s office with information that Robinson had confessed or implied involvement,” Cox explained. Investigators later interviewed relatives who said Robinson had become increasingly political and had mentioned Kirk’s upcoming UVU appearance during a recent family dinner.
Despite his arrest, Robinson is refusing to speak with investigators. “He has not confessed. He is not cooperating, but everyone around him is,” Cox told ABC’s This Week on Sunday. He emphasized that Robinson’s roommate—described as both his partner and romantic companion—has been fully cooperative and was unaware of any violent intent.
Cox noted that Robinson’s family has also provided information helpful to the investigation. “This partner has been incredibly cooperative, had no idea that this was happening, and is working with investigators right now,” he said. The governor declined to speculate whether the relationship might shed light on motive.
Pressed on CNN’s State of the Union about whether the roommate’s gender identity factored into the case, Cox stressed caution. “It’s easy to draw conclusions. We’re gathering forensic evidence—shell casings, other materials—and trying to piece everything together.”
Authorities are continuing to examine Robinson’s movements and possible motives as the nation reels from Kirk’s shocking death. For now, investigators face the challenge of building a case without direct cooperation from the suspect.
