What Happened to Charlie Kirk
Date and time of Charlie Kirk dead: The shooting occurred on September 10, 2025, at approximately 12:23 p.m. MDT during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University in Orem, USA.
Victim: Charlie Kirk, 31, died from a gunshot wound to the neck. He was speaking before a large audience.
Suspect: Tyler James Robinson.
Evidence & Motive
Forensic evidence:
DNA matching Robinson was found on the trigger and other parts of a .30-06 Mauser rifle, as well as on a towel used to wrap the rifle. Unfired cartridges and a fired cartridge casing also carried his DNA.
Digital and written evidence:
Prosecutors say Robinson left a note before the shooting: “I had the opportunity to kill Charlie Kirk and I’m going to take it.” He also allegedly sent texts to his roommate and partner that contained admissions of guilt and expressed anger at what he called Kirk’s hateful speech. One message read, “I had enough of his hatred.”
Motive:
Authorities believe Robinson was targeting Kirk for his political views and rhetoric. Robinson’s family says he had become more politically active and leaned toward left-wing views, and that he had criticisms of Kirk’s positions.
Additional Developments
A protective order has been granted for Erika Kirk, widow of Charlie Kirk. Robinson is prohibited from contacting her. Robinson does not yet have his legal defense assigned. Utah County officials are working to appoint counsel. Students at Utah Valley University are returning to class, but many describe the campus atmosphere as somber.
Statements & Reactions
Parent’s Involvement
Robinson’s parents reportedly questioned him about why he did it. He allegedly answered: “there is too much evil and the guy [Charlie Kirk] spreads too much hate.”
Public Figures & Official Response
Many political leaders, including former President Barack Obama, have condemned the violence. Obama called the killing “horrific” but also emphasized the importance of protecting free speech even for those with whom one disagrees.
Reconstructed Conversation (based on evidence)
September 10, 2025 — Afternoon, after the shooting
Text from Tyler Robinson → Roommate
“I had the opportunity to kill Charlie Kirk, and I took it.”
Roommate → Tyler Robinson
“What? Are you serious? What are you saying?”
Tyler Robinson → Roommate
“I couldn’t stand his hatred anymore. I had enough.”
Roommate → Tyler Robinson
“Tyler, this is insane. Do you know what you’ve done? They’re going to come after you.”
Tyler Robinson → Roommate
“I don’t care. Someone had to stop him.”
Later, according to court documents
Robinson also sent a message to his partner, echoing the same anger toward Charlie Kirk’s speech.
He allegedly wrote:
“There is too much evil. He spreads too much hate.”
Law Enforcement Note
Prosecutors revealed these messages in court on September 16, 2025, during Robinson’s first appearance. They presented them as proof of premeditation and motive.
The texts, combined with Robinson’s DNA on the rifle, form key evidence in the aggravated murder charge.
