Tyler Robinson was recognized by means of DNA proof because the suspect within the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, in line with FBI Director Kash Patel, who spoke Monday (September 15) on Fox News.

Robinson, 22, was arrested and booked into Utah County Jail on costs together with aggravated homicide, felony discharge of a firearm inflicting critical damage and obstruction of justice. He’s anticipated to be formally charged Tuesday (September 16). Authorities haven’t confirmed whether or not he has authorized illustration.

Patel mentioned DNA matching Robinson was found on a towel allegedly wrapped across the firearm used within the taking pictures and on a screwdriver discovered on a close-by rooftop. Both gadgets had been recovered near the crime scene.

“I can report today that the DNA hits from the towel that was wrapped around the firearm and the DNA on the screwdriver are positively processed for the suspect in custody,” Patel mentioned.

The firearm itself, a Mauser bolt-action rifle, continues to be present process forensic evaluation on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives facility in Maryland.

According to Patel, Robinson’s alleged motive was political. “His family has collectively told investigators that he subscribed to left-wing ideology, and even more so in these last couple of years, and he had a text message exchange — he, the suspect, with another individual — in which he claimed that he had an opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and he was going to do it because of his hatred for what Charlie stood for,” Patel mentioned.

The rifle was reportedly discovered close to bullet casings etched with messages, together with one which learn, “Hey fascist! Catch!”

Patel mentioned he and a crew of FBI brokers personally walked the crime scene to collect proof and confirmed the DNA findings.

The FBI director additionally addressed criticism over his early announcement {that a} “subject” was in custody, a press release made earlier than costs had been filed. “The job of the FBI is not just to manhunt the actual suspect who did the killing, or suspects, but it’s also to eliminate targets and eliminate subjects who are not involved in the process, and that’s what we were doing,” he mentioned. “Could I have worded it a little better in the heat of the moment? Sure. But do I regret putting it out? Absolutely not.”

Patel dismissed stories of pressure with native legislation enforcement however acknowledged he was annoyed by delays in receiving investigative supplies. “The photos were produced, they just weren’t produced in a timely fashion that I felt was appropriate for an investigation of this magnitude. So I came in and I accelerated that process,” he mentioned.

Relatives and neighbors described Robinson as a “squeaky clean” and “considerate” younger man from suburban Utah who had just lately develop into politically lively.

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