FBI Finds DNA Evidence Tying Suspect to Charlie Kirk Shooting/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The FBI says DNA evidence ties suspect Tyler Robinson to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, confirming links to a firearm and tools left behind. Mourning services drew hundreds in Washington, while lawmakers planned additional tributes. Officials describe the attack as ideologically motivated, sparking political and diplomatic responses.
Key Developments in Charlie Kirk Assassination Case: Quick Looks
- DNA Match: FBI confirms Robinson’s DNA found on firearm towel and screwdriver.
- Escape Attempt: Suspect fled Utah Valley University after shooting, leaving weapon behind.
- Custody Status: Robinson under special watch, not cooperating with police.
- National Mourning: Hundreds attend Kennedy Center memorial; top GOP leaders speak.
- Capitol Vigil: Speaker Mike Johnson announces prayer vigil Monday night.
- FBI Stance: Deputy Director Dan Bongino stresses transparency, cites ideological motive.
- Rubio’s Warning: Secretary of State vows to revoke visas of foreigners who celebrate killing.
- Tribute Broadcast: VP JD Vance to host special episode of The Charlie Kirk Show.
- Public Impact: Mourning events scheduled nationwide, including a stadium memorial in Arizona.
Deep Look: FBI Confirms DNA Link in Charlie Kirk Assassination as Nation Mourns
WASHINGTON (AP) — The FBI has confirmed that forensic evidence directly ties Tyler Robinson, the man accused of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk, to the crime scene. FBI Director Kash Patel said investigators matched Robinson’s DNA to two key items recovered after the shooting: a screwdriver and a towel wrapped around the firearm believed to have been used.
“I can report today that the DNA hits from the towel that was wrapped around the firearm and the DNA on the screwdriver are positively processed for the suspect in custody,” Patel told Fox News on Monday morning.
The Crime and Escape
Authorities say Robinson fled immediately after the shooting at Utah Valley University, leaping from a rooftop and disappearing into nearby woods. He allegedly abandoned the towel-wrapped gun during his escape before reaching a residential neighborhood.
Robinson remains under close surveillance in custody but has refused to cooperate during police interviews.
National Mourning for Charlie Kirk
The assassination has sent shockwaves through conservative circles and beyond. On Sunday night, hundreds gathered at Washington’s Kennedy Center for a prayer vigil and memorial.
Mourners, many dressed in black or wearing “freedom” pins, filled the venue as worship music played and families prayed together. Republican leaders including House Speaker Mike Johnson offered tributes.
“It’s been a mixture of unspeakable sadness and grief and anger and even fear,” Johnson said. “But the best way to honor his unmatched legacy is to live as Charlie did.”
Other speakers included White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Gabbard emphasized Kirk’s enduring global influence, saying: “His impact here and around the world is profound.”
Political Response
On Monday, Speaker Johnson announced he will host a Capitol prayer vigil in Statuary Hall, inviting members of Congress to participate. Meanwhile, Turning Point USA is organizing a large-scale memorial service in Arizona, where Kirk founded his political movement.
Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino pledged transparency in the investigation, calling the attack “clearly ideologically motivated.” He said Robinson’s family told investigators that he had become increasingly political and obsessed with Kirk in recent years.
“Based on family statements, friends, and digital messaging, it’s fairly obvious this was motivated by ideology,” Bongino said.
International Angle: Rubio Targets Visa Holders
“We should not be giving visas to people who are going to come to the United States and do things like celebrate the murder of a political figure,” Rubio said.
Tributes Continue: Vance to Host Kirk’s Show
Vice President JD Vance announced he will host a special edition of The Charlie Kirk Show this week to honor his friend. “Tomorrow, I will have the honor of hosting the Charlie Kirk Show,” Vance wrote, calling it a personal tribute.
Looking Ahead
The investigation remains ongoing as the FBI pursues additional leads, but the DNA match marks the most concrete link between Robinson and the assassination. With mourning events across the country, political tributes at the Capitol, and international fallout, Charlie Kirk’s killing continues to reverberate through both American politics and global diplomacy.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.