Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, reportedly confessed to the crime in a group chat on Discord hours before his arrest.
A spokesperson for the platform confirmed the message to CBS News, stating Robinson wrote, “It was me at UVU yesterday. im sorry for all of this.”
Robinson was taken into custody following a 33-hour manhunt after Kirk was shot in the neck during a public event at Utah Valley University. He is being held without bail and is expected to appear in court on Tuesday.
Authorities say he faces charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, and obstruction of justice, offenses that could carry the death penalty.
Law enforcement sources revealed that Robinson and his friends discussed the shooting in a Discord group chat involving over 20 people.
Messages from the account believed to be his also indicated plans to surrender: “im surrendering through a sheriff friend in a few moments… thank you all for everything.”
Utah Governor Spencer Cox said Robinson confessed to his father before turning himself in. The FBI is also investigating a text message found on Robinson’s phone in which he allegedly stated,
“I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and I was going to do that.”
Discord’s internal review found no evidence that Robinson planned the attack or promoted violence on the platform.
Charlie Kirk, 31, was a prominent right-wing figure and co-founder of Turning Point USA. His death sparked political outrage, with both parties blaming rising rhetoric for the tragedy. Vigils have been held across the U.S. and abroad in his memory.
Investigators are still working to determine a motive. Governor Cox previously described Robinson as “deeply indoctrinated with leftist ideology,” though public records show he was registered as a nonpartisan voter. His parents are registered Republicans.
Speculation about a broader conspiracy has surfaced, with Trump official Stephen Miller suggesting an organized campaign may have been behind the killing. However, no evidence has been presented to support that claim.
Kirk was known for his staunch conservative views, including support for gun rights and opposition to abortion and LGBTQ+ rights.
While admired by his supporters for his relatability and debate style, he was also widely criticized for remarks deemed offensive by liberal groups.
