Utah Governor Spencer Cox stated that the man accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk is refusing to cooperate with law enforcement.
The suspect, Tyler Robinson, 22, was arrested 33 hours after Kirk was shot dead while speaking at an outdoor Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
Governor Cox told ABC News that while Robinson himself has not been forthcoming, “the people around him have been cooperating with the investigation.”
Details of the Case
- Robinson was reportedly communicating on Discord after the shooting, even joking about being the gunman.
- Governor Cox confirmed that such conversations took place, though some initially dismissed his claims as a joke until Robinson admitted involvement.
- Robinson was arrested Thursday evening after surrendering to police.
Political and Social Context
Kirk, 31, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was on his “American Comeback Tour,” speaking at college campuses nationwide, when the fatal shooting occurred.
Governor Cox has repeatedly expressed concern about social media’s role in radicalization, calling it a “cancer” and urging stronger accountability for tech platforms. He described the attack as a “direct assault on America.”
Charges and Investigation
A sworn affidavit from Utah state authorities confirms Robinson faces charges of:
- Aggravated murder
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Obstruction of justice
He is currently held without bail at the Utah County Jail.
Cox also revealed that Robinson’s roommate, who is also his partner and is transitioning from male to female, has been fully cooperative with investigators.
Governor’s Call for Unity
Governor Cox has urged Americans to reduce political polarization following Kirk’s killing.
“We need to look in the mirror and decide: will we make this better, or will we make it worse?” he said.
