Federal investigators have confirmed that Tyler Robinson, 22, accused of assassinating Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, was living with his transgender partner, Lance Twiggs, in St. George, Utah, at the time of the killing. The FBI described Twiggs as “extremely cooperative” and not involved in the crime. Evidence from their shared apartment was sent for forensic review.
Robinson’s father identified him in surveillance footage released during a 33-hour manhunt and turned him in after consulting with a family minister. Robinson reportedly expressed suicidal thoughts upon returning home.
Authorities say Robinson used a bolt-action rifle to shoot Kirk from about 200 yards away while Kirk spoke at Utah Valley University. The bullet struck Kirk in the neck, killing him instantly. Kirk, 31, was a married father of two. His assassination drew widespread condemnation as an attack on free speech.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed anti-fascist inscriptions were found on shell casings near the rifle. Investigators believe Robinson may have been motivated by Kirk’s religious objections to transgender ideology, which Robinson allegedly saw as hateful toward Twiggs.
Twiggs, shocked by the killing, provided investigators with electronic messages from Robinson. Neighbors reported seeing the couple frequently together and noted unusual visitors to their residence. Authorities are also probing Robinson’s possible links to local left-wing groups. Kirk’s final moments involved a tense exchange about transgender mass shooters, just seconds before he was shot.