In a shocking development, the FBI has confirmed that DNA recovered from the scene of Charlie Kirk’s murder matches the suspect, Tyler Robinson, marking a critical breakthrough in the investigation. Robinson, 22, was arrested following a 33-hour manhunt after the fatal shooting of the influential conservative figure at a speaking event in Utah on September 11, 2025.
Kirk, the founder of the youth political movement Turning Point USA, was shot in broad daylight while addressing a crowd on a university campus. Authorities revealed that the shooter used a sniper rifle, targeting Kirk with a single bullet to the neck from a nearby rooftop.
Speaking on Fox News, FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that DNA evidence found on a towel wrapped around the weapon and a screwdriver left at the crime scene was directly linked to Robinson. “I can report today that the DNA hits from the towel and the screwdriver are positively processed for the suspect in custody,” Patel said.
Further alarming revelations have emerged regarding a note believed to have been written by Robinson prior to the shooting. The note, which Patel discussed on air, expressed the suspect’s intent to kill Kirk: “I have the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and I’m going to take it.”
Patel also disclosed that a similar note had been found at Robinson’s family home. While the note was destroyed, forensic evidence confirmed its presence, deepening the mystery surrounding the motive.
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Kirk, a vocal critic of the transgender rights movement and an ardent supporter of former US President Donald Trump, was known for his provocative online presence. He frequently engaged his millions of followers on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, where his sharp political commentary earned him both staunch supporters and fierce critics.
In a twist of irony, Robinson, the alleged murderer, had a history of involvement with left-wing ideologies. Utah Governor Spencer Cox revealed that Robinson had been romantically involved with a transgender individual, adding complexity to the narrative. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, a prominent conservative podcast host, mentioned that Robinson’s friends and family had noticed a shift towards more extreme political views in the lead-up to the attack, suggesting possible warning signs.
As the investigation progresses, Robinson is expected to face formal charges for the murder, with authorities likely to release more details in the coming days. Meanwhile, Kirk’s supporters are grappling with the sudden loss of a figure who shaped much of their political activism.
US President Donald Trump, who was a close ally of Kirk, is scheduled to attend a memorial service for the late influencer, set to take place at a stadium in Arizona this Sunday. Kirk’s podcast was also hosted by Trump’s vice president, JD Vance, on Monday as part of the ongoing tribute.
The FBI’s actions have not been without controversy. Patel, who faced criticism for prematurely announcing a suspect’s arrest only to later retract the information, defended his conduct, saying, “Could I have worded it a little better in the heat of the moment? Sure. But do I regret putting it out? Absolutely not.”
Patel is expected to testify before Congress on Tuesday, where lawmakers will likely seek more clarification on the events surrounding the investigation.
