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Local leaders respond to the arrest of Charlie Kirk’s suspected killer

By Jacob Nielson - | Sep 12, 2025

Courtesy Utah Governor's Office

A mugshot of Tyler Robinson, the man suspected of fatally shooting Charlie Kirk, is shown.

A 22-year-old Utah native was arrested Friday on suspicion of murdering conservative activist Charlie Kirk, bringing to a close a 33-hour manhunt that involved local, state and federal officials.

Gov. Spencer Cox broke the news that officials had detained Tyler Robinson by declaring “We got him,” during a press conference Friday morning, and reactions from local and state leaders followed.

Utah County Sheriff Mike Smith told reporters it was a “very fast-paced investigation” and thanked the local, state and federal law enforcement for their efforts.

“You’re looking at people standing up here who if they got an hour of sleep in the last couple of days, they’re probably lucky,” Smith said. “It has been very taxing. It has been so impressive, speaking on behalf of the local law enforcement, to see the cooperation that we’ve seen in this type of case.”

The shooting has cast a “dark shadow” over the county, state and nation, said the Utah County Commissioners, who extended their gratitude to Smith and his deputies along with state and federal partners.

Courtesy Utah Governor's Office

A mugshot of Tyler Robinson, the man suspected of fatally shooting Charlie Kirk, is shown.

“As Utah County Commissioners and citizens, we are profoundly relieved by the arrest of Tyler Robinson, the suspect in the tragic shooting of Charlie Kirk,” a statement read. “This development brings a measure of reassurance to a community that has been shaken by violence.

“We stand united in our unwavering conviction that political violence has no place in our society. A vigorous and decisive prosecution is essential — not only to deliver justice, but to send an unequivocal message: such acts will never be tolerated.”

The Utah County Attorney is expected to file charges against Tyler Robinson on Tuesday, around which time a news conference is planned to be held at the Utah County Convention Center, according to a county spokesperson.

County Attorney Jeff Gray is expected to comment after he files charges.

Utah Sen. and former Provo Mayor John Curtis also lauded the work of law enforcement and called for justice to be pursued “fully and fairly.”

“Charlie did nothing to deserve this. He came to Utah with nothing more than his voice,” Curtis said. “My thoughts turn to the UVU students who had to witness this unspeakable tragedy and to Charlie’s family, who must now carry an unimaginable burden. My prayers are with them all.”

Congressmen representing Utah County also commented on the arrest.

“Governor Cox, Utah law enforcement, the FBI and all our state and federal partners did a phenomenal job in identifying Charlie Kirk’s suspected killer,” Rep. Blake Moore said.

Added Rep. Burgess Owens:

“Thankful for the tireless work of Utah and federal law enforcement, Spencer Cox, FBI Director Kash Patel and all who helped bring Charlie Kirk’s suspected assassin into custody. Justice will be served.”

This story will be updated.

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