On September 11, 2025 political activist, author, and media personality Charles “Charlie” James Kirk was shot during an event at Utah Valley University. Later that Thursday, authorities shared a video of a suspect climbing down the roof around the place the shooting happened.
On September 12, law enforcement officials announced the arrest of 22-year-old Tyler Robinson for the death of Charlie Kirk. With evidence found of confessions, DNA and his grandfather’s rifle later on into the investigation.
According to CBS News, “Robinson was arrested on charges of aggravated murder, obstruction of justice for moving and hiding the gun believed to be used in the attack and felony discharge of a firearm causing bodily injury, according to a booking sheet from the Utah County Sheriff. All three are felonies.”
Later on Sept. 16 he was charged on seven felony charges, including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, obstruction of justice and witness tampering. Attorneys are looking through and reviewing the large amount of evidence deciding if the defense will seek a preliminary hearing. Utah prosecutors have charged Robinson with aggravated murder and plan to seek the death penalty.
Local prosecutors have said they will seek the death penalty, a decision President Donald Trump has publicly supported. On Sept. 21 a memorial was held for Charlie where conservative leaders, including top Trump administration officials such as Vice President JD Vance spoke at the service. Prominent speakers issued a rallying cry to continue Kirk’s work and recalled the activist as a personal friend. Where President Donald Trump also spoke addressing a huge crowd where he wants to continue Kirk’s vision.
Erica Kirk, Kirk’s wife of 4 years made a public appearance, and in her words “My husband’s voice will remain.” Live-streaming showed her standing beside her husband’s empty chair with moments of silence as she quoted the Bible and talked about his love for the President, Vice President and his wife and two children.
A candlelight vigil was held Sept. 22 at the Missouri State University campus in Springfield where hundreds gathered around for the remembrance of Charlie.