UPDATE:
Charlie Kirk’s assassin has been identified as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson of Utah.
—-
President Trump dropped a bombshell Friday morning, announcing live on Fox & Friends that a suspect has been arrested in the shocking assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.
“I think, with a high degree of certainty, we have him,” Trump declared during his 8 a.m. sit-down at the network’s Manhattan studio. The president said he was told just minutes before going on-air.
The suspect, Trump said, was turned in by “somebody very close to him” — reportedly the man’s own father, urged on by a minister. “They drove into the police headquarters. He’s there now,” Trump said.
Authorities have not yet named the alleged gunman, but investigators are set to brief the public later today.
Kirk, 31, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was gunned down Wednesday during a campus event at Utah Valley University in Orem. Cops believe the assassin fired a single round from 200 yards away, perched on a rooftop east of the school’s library.
Witness video captured the chilling moment: Kirk, answering a question about mass shootings, suddenly jerked back, clutching his neck as the crack of a rifle shot tore through the courtyard, sending thousands fleeing in terror.
Law enforcement from at least four agencies — including the FBI and local police — had been scouring the state in a massive manhunt.
Trump, who called Kirk “the finest person” and “a martyr for truth and freedom,” demanded the death penalty for the shooter. He also revealed Kirk will posthumously receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
“This is a dark day for our nation,” Trump said. “But Charlie’s voice and courage will live on.”
Kirk leaves behind his wife, Erika, and their two young children.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox called the murder “a political assassination,” vowing justice: “We still have the death penalty in Utah.”
The name of the suspect — and a motive — remain under wraps. For now, America waits.
Like Newport Buzz? We depend on the generosity of readers like you who support us, to help with our mission to keep you informed and entertained with local, independent news and content. We truly appreciate your trust and support!
