WASHINGTON (AP) — Family members of 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson, accused of shooting conservative speaker Charlie Kirk, told authorities he had recently become more political and viewed Kirk as a purveyor of hate, according to charging documents. Robinson was arrested on allegations of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily harm, and obstruction of justice. He is currently held without bail and is not affiliated with any political party, although he is registered to vote in Utah.
Court records do not show any prior criminal cases involving him, noting that he lived with his parents, who are Republicans and operate a granite countertop business. It remains unclear if Robinson has legal representation. His parents did not respond to requests for comments.
From the information gathered by family members, Robinson's recent political leanings might have shifted after expressing disdain for Kirk's views. Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed that family members had relayed Robinson's alleged confession regarding his role in the shooting. Family members noted that during a recent dinner, he expressed negative sentiments about Kirk, who was scheduled to speak at the Utah Valley University campus where Robinson is suspected of having committed the act.
As the investigation unfolded, witnesses reported that Robinson had discussed acquiring a gun on social media and was seen wearing clothing similar to that depicted in surveillance photographs of a suspect. This shooting incident has sparked conversations about political extremism and its tragic consequences.
Court records do not show any prior criminal cases involving him, noting that he lived with his parents, who are Republicans and operate a granite countertop business. It remains unclear if Robinson has legal representation. His parents did not respond to requests for comments.
From the information gathered by family members, Robinson's recent political leanings might have shifted after expressing disdain for Kirk's views. Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed that family members had relayed Robinson's alleged confession regarding his role in the shooting. Family members noted that during a recent dinner, he expressed negative sentiments about Kirk, who was scheduled to speak at the Utah Valley University campus where Robinson is suspected of having committed the act.
As the investigation unfolded, witnesses reported that Robinson had discussed acquiring a gun on social media and was seen wearing clothing similar to that depicted in surveillance photographs of a suspect. This shooting incident has sparked conversations about political extremism and its tragic consequences.
