Charlie Kirk’s alleged gunman stays silent as probe deepens

International

SILENCE from the suspect accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk is frustrating investigators, Utah’s governor said Sunday, noting the man has refused to cooperate or confess.

Tyler Robinson, 22, was arrested on Thursday evening, about 33 hours after Kirk was gunned down while speaking at a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University. Authorities say Robinson surrendered voluntarily.

A BBC report states that Governor Spencer Cox, a Republican, told ABC News that Robinson’s family and friends have been cooperating with investigators, but the suspect himself has not.

According to Cox, Robinson had been active in Discord chats after the shooting, where he initially joked about being the gunman before later acknowledging involvement.

The New York Times reported that Robinson appeared to communicate with others on Discord following the attack. Cox also told the Wall Street Journal that acquaintances described Robinson as heavily influenced by left-wing ideology, though he clarified on CNN that this description came from those close to the suspect. He said further evidence would emerge once formal charges are filed.

Court records show Robinson faces suspicion of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, and obstruction of justice. He is being held without bail in Utah County Jail.

Among those cooperating with investigators is Robinson’s roommate, who is also his partner. Cox said the partner had no knowledge of the shooting and has assisted authorities throughout the investigation. He confirmed the partner is transitioning from male to female but noted it was unclear whether that had any relevance to the case.

Kirk, 31, co-founded Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization that campaigned heavily for former President Donald Trump and other Republicans.

He was known for his outspoken views on gun rights, abortion, and transgender issues, as well as for spreading false claims about the COVID-19 pandemic.

His critics said his rhetoric was harmful, particularly toward LGBT communities, while his supporters praised him for energizing young conservatives and speaking to their concerns.

In the aftermath of the killing, Cox has urged Americans to lower the political temperature and has been outspoken about the role of social media in fueling division. He has described the platforms as harmful to society and called for tighter accountability measures for technology companies.

He also characterized Kirk’s death as a direct attack on the nation, saying Americans must decide whether they are making the situation better or worse.

Kirk’s widow, Erika, gave an emotional statement on Saturday thanking first responders and promising that her “husband’s voice will remain.”

A public memorial service is scheduled for September 21 at State Farm Stadium in Arizona, where Kirk lived with his wife and two children.(MyTVCebu)