Suspect in Charlie Kirk Shooting Allegedly Confessed on Discord Before Arrest

Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, reportedly confessed to the act in a message sent to friends on the chat platform Discord just hours before his arrest. According to a company spokesperson, Robinson's account posted, "Hey guys, I have bad news for you all. It was me at UVU yesterday. im sorry for all of this."

The message was sent on Thursday evening, approximately two hours before Robinson was taken into custody. The arrest followed a nearly two-day manhunt after Kirk was fatally shot during an outdoor event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. Utah Governor Spencer Cox stated that Robinson confessed to his father, who then contacted authorities. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that Robinson was taken into custody late Thursday night.

During the manhunt, the FBI released surveillance photos of the suspected shooter and sought public assistance, drawing nationwide attention and raising concerns about political violence. While the FBI pursued leads, Robinson and his friends discussed the shooting in a private Discord group. The Discord spokesperson noted that an internal investigation found "no evidence that the suspect planned this incident or promoted violence on Discord."

In the chat, at least three friends questioned Robinson about the shooting, noting the resemblance between him and the photos released by the FBI. Robinson did not refute their observations. In one exchange, a friend joked that Robinson should avoid McDonald's, referencing a previous incident involving another suspect. Robinson's account responded humorously about disposing of a manifesto and rifle.

Before his arrest, messages from Robinson's account suggested he intended to surrender, stating, "im surrendering through a sheriff friend in a few moments, thanks for all the good times and laughs, you've all been so amazing, thank you all for everything." Robinson was subsequently taken into custody on charges including aggravated murder, obstruction, and firearm offenses. Governor Cox indicated that the state would seek the death penalty. Robinson's initial court appearance is expected on Tuesday afternoon, following the filing of formal charges.

Law enforcement sources revealed that Robinson's father recognized his son in the FBI's images and confronted him. Robinson admitted to being the person in the photos but expressed a desire to die by suicide rather than surrender. His father then contacted a youth pastor, who, in turn, alerted the U.S. Marshals Service, leading to Robinson's arrest.