BREAKING: “We Got Him” – Utah Governor Announces Capture of Charlie Kirk Shooting Suspect

By Special Correspondent | September 13, 2025

In a dramatic development that has captivated the nation, Utah authorities announced early this morning the capture of Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old suspect in the shocking assassination attempt on conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Governor Spencer Cox made the announcement with a triumphant declaration: “We got him.”

The Breakthrough

The breakthrough in the case came on the evening of September 11th when a family member of Robinson contacted authorities through a family friend who reached out to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. According to officials, Robinson had allegedly confessed or strongly implied his involvement in the shooting that occurred at Utah Valley University (UVU) on September 10th.

“This was textbook police work combined with crucial public assistance,” said FBI Director Cash Patel, who stood alongside the governor during the press conference. “The family’s decision to come forward was the key that unlocked this case.”

The Investigation Timeline

Investigators pieced together Robinson’s movements through extensive surveillance footage from the UVU campus. The suspect was identified arriving at approximately 8:29 a.m. on September 10th in a gray Dodge Challenger. Video evidence showed Robinson wearing a plain maroon t-shirt, light-colored shorts, a black hat with a white logo, and light-colored shoes.

When authorities located Robinson in Washington County during the early morning hours of September 12th, he was wearing clothing consistent with those seen in the surveillance images, further strengthening the case against him.

“The coordination between local, state, and federal agencies was seamless,” said Special Agent in Charge Marcus Johnson. “From the moment the shots were fired, we were determined to bring the perpetrator to justice.”

Political Motivations

The investigation has uncovered disturbing details about Robinson’s possible motivations. A family member interviewed by investigators revealed that Robinson had “become more political in recent years.” The relative described a dinner conversation prior to September 10th where Robinson specifically mentioned Charlie Kirk’s upcoming appearance at UVU.

According to the family member’s statement, Robinson and another relative discussed “why they didn’t like him and the viewpoints that he had.” The family member also reportedly stated that Robinson believed Kirk was “full of hate and spreading hate.”

“While we cannot comment on specific motives at this time, we are exploring all angles, including the possibility this was politically motivated,” said County Prosecutor Elizabeth Harmon.

The Weapon

In a chilling discovery, investigators found a bolt-action rifle wrapped in a dark-colored towel at Robinson’s residence. The weapon was identified as a Mauser Model 98 in .30-06 caliber with a mounted scope. Forensic experts are currently analyzing the rifle to confirm whether it matches ballistic evidence from the shooting scene.

Perhaps most disturbing were the inscriptions investigators noted on casings found with the rifle, though authorities have not yet disclosed the content of these engravings.

“The weapon appears to have been carefully selected and prepared,” said ballistics expert Dr. Raymond Torres, who is not directly involved in the investigation but has consulted on similar cases. “The choice of a bolt-action rifle with a scope suggests premeditation and planning.”

National Implications

The attempted assassination of Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and close ally of former President Donald Trump, has sent shockwaves through America’s political landscape. The incident occurred during a particularly tense period in American politics, with the 2025 presidential campaign in full swing.

Political analysts suggest this attack could have far-reaching implications for national discourse around political violence. “This incident forces us to confront the dangerous escalation of political rhetoric in our country,” said Dr. Amelia Watkins, professor of Political Science at Georgetown University.

Former President Trump, who had been scheduled to appear with Kirk later this week, issued a statement calling the attack “an assault on free speech and conservative values.” Meanwhile, President Harris condemned the violence, stating that “political differences must never lead to violence in our democracy.”

What’s Next

Robinson is currently being held without bail at the Washington County Detention Center. He faces multiple charges, including attempted murder and possession of an illegal weapon. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for next week, where prosecutors are expected to present their initial evidence against Robinson. Legal experts anticipate a lengthy and high-profile trial that will likely attract national attention.

“This case will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Attorney General Marcus Williams. “Political violence has no place in our society.”

As the nation processes this latest incident of political violence, security has been increased at political events nationwide. The FBI has also announced a comprehensive review of threats against public figures across the political spectrum.

For now, the capture of Tyler Robinson brings some closure to a case that has gripped the nation for the past 72 hours. As Governor Cox stated at the conclusion of his remarks: “Today, justice begins its course.”