The alleged assailant, however, admitted to acquaintances on Discord that he was responsible for the death of the conservative activist, according to Spencer Cox.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox informed ABC that the individual suspected of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk is not cooperating with the ongoing investigation. The governor added that authorities are presently collecting evidence from “people around him” and examining his online activities.
Tyler Robinson, 22, identified as the alleged shooter, remains in custody. Cox indicated that formal charges are anticipated to be filed against him on Tuesday. The governor clarified, stating, “He has not confessed… to authorities. He … is not cooperating,” while also noting that “all the people around him are cooperating.”
Cox confirmed earlier media reports by stating that the suspect has a trans partner. He further elaborated, “We can confirm that… his roommate was indeed a boyfriend who is transitioning from… male to female,” a detail also verified by the FBI. According to the governor, this individual is cooperating with law enforcement.
Cox also stated that investigators have determined the suspect discussed the shooting with acquaintances on Discord following the incident, taking responsibility for it. He quoted, “All we can confirm is that those conversations definitely were happening, and they did not believe it was actually him. It was … all joking until… he admitted that it actually was him.”
ABC reports that the motive for the murder remains undetermined. Cox had previously informed the Wall Street Journal that Robinson was “deeply indoctrinated with leftist ideology.” When ABC sought his comment on this statement, he responded: “so far, that has come from his acquaintances and his family members.”
Kirk, 31, founder of Turning Point USA, sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the neck while speaking to students in Orem, Utah. Robinson’s arrest occurred on Friday, following reports that his father identified him in surveillance footage and convinced him to surrender.
Law enforcement officials found a Mauser .30 caliber bolt-action rifle and ammunition inscribed with slogans like “Hey fascist! Catch!” close to the location of the shooting.
Following the incident, US President Donald Trump stated that Kirk’s murderer ought to face the death penalty. Cox had also previously indicated that authorities would pursue capital punishment for the assailant.