Tyler Robinson’s Texts Sent Before Charlie Kirk Shooting Could Reveal His Motive: FBI Director

A poster of conservative activist Charlie Kirk is displayed at a memorial following the fatal shooting of Kirk, at the Turning Point USA headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona, US, (Reuters)

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel has said that a text message sent by Charlie Kirk’s assassin, Tyler Robinson, may indicate a motive for last week’s shooting.

“[W]hat was found, in terms of information, a text message exchange where the suspect [Robinson], specifically stated that he had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and he was going to do that,” Patel said during an appearance on Fox News’ “Hannity” on Monday. “And when [Robinson] was asked why, he said, ‘Some hatred cannot be negotiated with.”

Charlie Kirk, founder of the conservative youth group Turning Point USA and a close ally of President Donald Trump, was shot last Wednesday during a speaking event at a university in Utah. Known for his vocal criticism of progressive issues, Kirk was a polarising figure in American politics.

Police arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, the suspect in Kirk’s killing, after a 33-hour manhunt. Authorities said Robinson fired a single shot from a rooftop, striking Kirk in the neck. He is expected to be formally charged on Tuesday.