WASHINGTON — Utah lawmakers praised the FBI and local law enforcement officials for their swift work to identify and arrest the suspect less than two days after the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox announced on Friday that the FBI had the suspect in custody, identifying him as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson of Washington County, Utah. Cox, along with FBI Director Kash Patel, commended the state and federal investigators leading the case, noting it took roughly 33 hours to get the suspect in custody after allegedly shooting Kirk.
Those in Utah’s congressional delegation were quick to weigh in and express their gratitude to all law enforcement officials involved, while acknowledging the investigation is still ongoing.
“As the FBI and Utah law enforcement continue to reveal more about the motives behind this heinous assassination, let us once more pray that justice be done, that Charlie Kirk’s family be surrounded by love and comfort, and that we never allow such a crime to happen again,” Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, said in a post on X.
Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, was the first in the delegation to respond, praising the “swift and tireless work” of the officials who responded to the incident on Utah Valley University’s campus and those who helped track down Robinson in the days following.
“Their dedication and coordination in the face of tragedy remind us of the strength and professionalism of those who protect our communities,” he said in a statement. “As the legal process moves forward, we trust that justice will be pursued fully and fairly.”
Rep. Mike Kennedy, who represents the district where Utah Valley University is located, also expressed thanks to the thousands of people who submitted tips to the FBI to help identify Robinson.
“I am confident that the full force of the American legal system will deliver justice for Charlie and for your family,” Kennedy said in a post on X. “We will not allow an act of evil to silence the American people. Charlie’s legacy of free speech and commitment to civil discussion will live on. Violence will not intimidate us and violence will not silence us.”
Robinson was arrested on suspicion of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a weapon causing serious bodily injury, and obstruction of justice, according to the Associated Press. Cox told reporters on Friday that he is currently being held at the Utah County jail.
Vice President JD Vance responded to the arrest by saying the investigation is likely “still in the early days” but that he believes “we have the shooter in custody.”
Robinson was arrested on Thursday evening after a family friend contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office “with information that Robinson had confessed to them or implied that he had committed the incident,” Cox said on Friday morning.
Members of Utah’s House delegation similarly praised state and federal law enforcement, while also urging continued prayer for Kirk’s family.
“We are all grateful for their efforts and demonstration of Utah’s hardworking spirit,” Rep. Blake Moore, R-Utah, said in a post on X. “My team and I continue to pray for Charlie’s family and loved ones during this unthinkable time.”
Utah Rep. Burgess Owens also wrote: “Justice will be served. May God continue to surround Charlie’s family and loved ones with comfort and strength.”
