Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old student, has been identified as the suspect in the assassination of prominent right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk. Kirk, a 31-year-old father of two and ally of former President Donald Trump, was shot dead during a debate at Utah Valley University. Authorities have classified the incident as a political assassination.

Robinson was arrested two days after the shooting, which occurred on September 10. Reports indicate that his father, a former law enforcement officer, played a crucial role in turning him in. President Trump announced the arrest during an interview, stating that officials have a "high degree of certainty" that Robinson is the shooter. Trump revealed that a "person of faith, a minister" had approached Robinson's father, convincing him to bring his son to the authorities.

The arrest took place in St. George, near Zion National Park, approximately 250 miles from the university campus where Kirk was killed. Following the shooting, police initially detained two other individuals, but they were released after it was determined they had no connection to the incident.

Kirk was shot in the neck while addressing a question about gun violence from an audience member. Eyewitnesses reported gasps and screams from the crowd of around 3,000 as the event was immediately evacuated. The FBI has since released CCTV footage showing a suspect on the roof of a nearby building, approximately 180 metres away from Kirk's location.

Authorities have recovered a high-calibre rifle believed to be the weapon used in the shooting, found in a wooded area on campus. Investigators are examining engravings on the firearm for potential clues regarding the motive behind the attack.

In the wake of Kirk's death, President Trump expressed his condolences, describing Kirk as "like a son" to him. He has also indicated that he hopes the suspect will face the death penalty. Trump has announced plans to posthumously award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honour in the United States.

The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the circumstances surrounding the shooting and any potential motives. Robinson's background has come under scrutiny, with reports suggesting he had become increasingly political in recent years, expressing disdain for Kirk within his family.