OREM, Utah — Authorities have arrested a 22-year-old man, Tyler Robinson, in connection with the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The arrest has raised concerns about political violence in the United States, which is experiencing heightened polarization.

Robinson reportedly expressed opposition to Kirk's views and indicated his involvement in the shooting. Utah Governor Spencer Cox revealed that Robinson had become increasingly political before the incident and mentioned Kirk's visit to Utah during a family dinner.

Evidence collected includes engravings on unspent bullet casings found at the scene, as well as messages from a chat app shared by a roommate with law enforcement. "Ladies and gentlemen, we got him," Cox announced at a news conference following the arrest, which was first mentioned by former President Donald Trump on a television program.

Robinson is believed to have acted alone, and the investigation is ongoing. His arrest concluded a frantic search that began shortly after the shooting, which occurred during a debate at Utah Valley University. The event was part of Kirk's "American Comeback Tour."

Cox emphasized the need for dialogue over violence, stating, "This is our moment: Do we escalate or do we find an off ramp? It’s a choice." A breakthrough in the case came when a family member informed a friend that Robinson had confessed or implied responsibility for the shooting.

Robinson's father recognized him from FBI photos and urged him to turn himself in. Initially resistant, Robinson eventually agreed to surrender with the help of their youth pastor, who contacted the U.S. Marshals.

No criminal charges have been announced, and it remains unclear if Robinson has legal representation. Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the shooting, but they have pointed to evidence that may provide insight into the incident. Among the findings were bullet casings with engravings, including one that read, "Hey, fascist! Catch!"

Kirk was shot once in what police described as a targeted attack. He co-founded Turning Point USA, a nonprofit organization aimed at engaging young conservatives. The shooting occurred while Kirk was addressing social issues, and video footage captured the moment he was shot, showing him reaching for his neck as blood flowed.

The shooter, who is believed to have blended into the crowd, fired from a rooftop. The FBI's top agent in Salt Lake City confirmed that this was a targeted event.

In response to the violence, Trump announced plans to award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the U.S. Vice President JD Vance visited Kirk's family and shared memories of their friendship.

Kirk's casket was transported from Utah to Phoenix, where his organization is based. Trump has indicated he will attend Kirk's funeral, though details have yet to be released.

Kirk was known for provoking debate on college campuses and had recently faced backlash for his appearance at the university, where an online petition sought to prevent him from speaking. The university defended his right to free speech, affirming its commitment to constructive dialogue.