New details emerge about suspect in Charlie Kirk killing
WASHINGTON (NBC) — New details are emerging about the man accused of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk, as tributes and heightened security measures ripple across the country.
Authorities say the suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, remains on special watch status while charges are expected to be filed Tuesday, according to Utah Gov. Spencer Cox. A motive has not been determined.
Cox said Robinson grew up in a conservative family but held “very different” beliefs. State records show Robinson is not registered with a political party and did not vote in the two most recent general elections.
Interviews with loved ones, including a former roommate who was also Robinson’s boyfriend, suggest Robinson strongly disliked Kirk and his views, Cox said. The roommate, who is transitioning from male to female, has cooperated with investigators, while Robinson has not. Cox said the roommate had no knowledge of Robinson’s alleged plans.
Kirk, a prominent conservative voice who was often critical of transgender rights, was remembered Sunday during a vigil at the Kennedy Center in Washington. A few NFL teams also held moments of silence before their games.
The shooting has prompted renewed concerns about security for lawmakers. House Speaker Mike Johnson said leaders are working to “calm the nerves” of members of Congress, some of whom have canceled events or moved them indoors.
“When Charlie Kirk was shot, I said immediately that could be you or me,” Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., said.
President Donald Trump has requested $58 million from Congress to bolster security for the executive and judicial branches, as well as provide additional support for lawmakers. He is also expected to attend a large memorial service for Kirk next Sunday, where he plans to award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously.
“I’m gonna be going to Charlie’s — I guess you could call it a funeral,” Trump said. “We’re gonna give him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is a big deal.”
Kirk’s widow, Erika, spoke publicly for the first time Sunday, calling her husband a martyr and vowing to carry on his work.
“The movement my husband built will not die, it won’t. I refuse to let that happen,” she said.
Kirk’s death drew responses internationally, with supporters gathering outside U.S. embassies in Europe and Africa. Several world leaders also issued statements calling him a friend and inspiration.
