President Donald Trump said Friday that a suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk is now in custody, calling it a breakthrough in an investigation that has drawn national attention.
“I think with a high degree of certainty, we have him in custody,” Trump said during an appearance on Fox & Friends. He added that someone close to the suspect, including a minister with ties to law enforcement, turned him in.
Authorities have identified the suspect as Tyler Robinson, 22, of Utah. The shooting occurred on Wednesday at Utah Valley University in Orem, where Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was speaking at an outdoor event. He was struck by a single gunshot.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox called the killing a political assassination. A high-powered bolt-action rifle believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered.
Investigators have received thousands of tips relating to the case. Federal, state and local law enforcement agencies are expected to provide additional details later Friday.
