The investigation into the assassination of conservative commentator **Charlie Kirk** has widened, with FBI Director **Kash Patel** confirming that more people could face charges in connection to the shooting that stunned the nation last month.
Speaking before the **Senate Judiciary Committee** on Thursday, Patel said investigators are actively pursuing new leads involving individuals linked to the alleged shooter, **22-year-old Tyler Robinson**, who is accused of fatally shooting Kirk during an event at **Utah Valley University** on **September 10, 2025**.
“There are a number of individuals that are currently being investigated and interrogated — and a number yet to be investigated and interrogated — related to that chat room,” Patel said, referencing an online Discord group where Robinson reportedly posted incriminating messages.
According to federal investigators, Robinson confessed to the crime in a group chat shortly after the attack, writing: “Hey guys, I have bad news for you all… It was me at UVU yesterday. I’m sorry for all this.”
Authorities believe that Robinson may have interacted with others who were aware of his plans in advance or provided indirect support. The FBI is now analyzing digital communications, encrypted messages, and social media data tied to several individuals across multiple states.
“This is no longer just about one gunman,” Patel said. “We’re looking at whether others played a role — through planning, encouragement, or logistical assistance. Every person involved will be held accountable.”
Patel’s comments come amid growing public speculation about the role online radicalization may have played in the incident. Investigators have traced Robinson’s online activity back months, uncovering posts expressing hostility toward conservative figures and repeated references to political violence.
Court documents indicate that Robinson used multiple encrypted platforms and was active in several chat rooms devoted to political debate and conspiracy theories. Some of these digital spaces have since been taken offline as the FBI works with private tech firms to preserve evidence.
“Digital fingerprints are as important as physical evidence,” Patel noted. “We are using every available tool to identify co-conspirators and reconstruct the timeline leading up to the attack.”
Robinson, currently held without bail, has pleaded not guilty to charges of **first-degree murder, terrorism, and the use of a firearm during a violent crime**. His attorney has not commented on Patel’s remarks but previously claimed that his client acted alone and without external influence.
However, prosecutors have hinted that new evidence could soon emerge. Federal sources told reporters that several members of the Discord group have been questioned, and at least two are under “active investigation” for possible obstruction or material support.
“We’re running down every lead,” Patel reiterated. “If anyone knew, helped, or encouraged this in any way, they will be charged.”
The killing of Charlie Kirk — founder of the conservative organization **Turning Point USA** — shocked the political world and prompted tributes from across the spectrum. **President Donald Trump** called Kirk “a patriot who gave everything to his country,” while thousands gathered in Arizona for his memorial service.
Kirk’s widow, **Erika Kirk**, has since taken over leadership of Turning Point USA and vowed to continue her husband’s work. In a recent statement, she said: “We trust law enforcement to uncover the full truth. Those responsible — every single one — must face justice.”
Patel’s testimony suggests that the case is far from over. Legal experts say if prosecutors can establish that others knowingly aided or encouraged the suspect, they could face **federal conspiracy or accessory charges**, potentially carrying decades-long prison sentences.
“This could expand dramatically depending on what’s found in those digital communications,” said **Mark Reynolds**, a former federal prosecutor. “Even casual messages that show foreknowledge can change the scope of the case.”
The FBI has not released the full contents of the Discord chats but confirmed they include “highly concerning exchanges” that investigators believe were deleted shortly after the attack. Patel said the bureau is working with cybersecurity experts to recover deleted data and trace any financial or logistical support.
“We will not stop until we’ve followed every lead and every message to its end,” Patel said. “The American people deserve the truth — and Charlie Kirk deserves justice.”
