World: Utah shooting of Charlie Kirk - new details emerge as suspect is charged and memorial service held
Investigation reveals a brush with police six hours after the attack; suspect arrested after family tips lead to capture; memorial service draws tens of thousands
Tyler Robinson, 22, was charged with seven counts, including capital murder, in the Sept. 10 fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a Utah university, according to charging documents. Prosecutors say a single bullet struck the father of two as he addressed a crowd.
Robinson allegedly fled the scene, dumped the Mauser rifle used in the shooting, and later returned to recover the weapon, according to charging documents.
Two law enforcement sources told Fox News that Robinson appeared at the wooded area where the gun was found about six hours after the shooting and briefly made contact with officers guarding the location, a development that could have prevented him from reclaiming the weapon.
Robinson then drove about 250 miles south to his home in St. George, Utah, and remained at large for nearly two days until investigators were alerted by his father and a local minister, who ultimately handed him over to authorities rather than police making the arrest.
Charging documents say Robinson's parents had already suspected involvement after seeing his photo among authorities' postings; his mother reportedly recognized the image and called her husband, prompting them to contact investigators.
A phone discussion with his parents preceded the arrest, with investigators alleging that Robinson indicated he was the shooter and expressed a desire not to go to jail, prompting his parents to arrange a meeting with him.
Robinson appeared in court wearing an anti-suicide vest and faced seven counts, including capital murder and weapons charges, in connection with the Kirk case.
Kirk's memorial service in Glendale, Arizona, drew tens of thousands on Sunday. Erika Kirk, the victim's widow, told mourners she forgives the killer, describing forgiveness as central to her faith.
Former President Donald Trump spoke at the service, calling Kirk a martyr for American freedom and telling attendees that the crowd would not forget him.
The investigation continues as prosecutors seek to clarify the events surrounding the shooting and the suspect's actions in the days leading up to his arrest.