Charlie Kirk Assassination: Shooter Tyler Robinson Left Cryptic Messages on Bullet Casings
Utah, September 13, 2025 – The investigation into the assassination of conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk has revealed disturbing details about the suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, who was arrested 33 hours after the killing.
Kirk was fatally shot on September 11 while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University (UVU). A sniper’s bullet struck him from a rooftop, killing him instantly. Utah Governor Spencer Cox later confirmed that the attack was a premeditated, lone-wolf plot carried out by Robinson.
During the probe, investigators discovered engraved inscriptions on Robinson’s rifle ammunition. These cryptic messages blend anti-fascist slogans, pop culture references, memes, and gaming symbols, offering a window into Robinson’s mindset.
One casing read: “Hey fascist! Catch!” alongside an up arrow (↑), a right arrow (→), and three down arrows (↓↓↓).
Another carried the phrase: “O Bella Ciao, Bella Ciao, Bella Ciao Ciao Ciao” – a direct reference to the famous Italian anti-fascist resistance song.
A third casing mocked readers with the meme-style line: “If you’re reading this, you’re gay LMAO.”
A fired round was inscribed with: “Notice, bulge, owo, what’s this?” – a phrase linked to furry and roleplay online communities.
The arrow sequence (↑ → ↓↓↓) matched a “Helldivers 2” game input for deploying a bomb, but investigators clarified it was not connected to Antifa symbols.
These messages, experts say, suggest Robinson’s ideology was shaped as much by internet culture and gaming as by political extremism.
Robinson hails from Washington City, Utah. His father, Matt Robinson, is a 27-year veteran of the Washington County Sheriff’s Department, and his family lives in a six-bedroom suburban home.
According to records, Robinson briefly studied at Utah State University in 2021 and is currently an electrical apprentice at Dixie Technical College. He had earned dual credits from Utah Tech University during high school.
Though a registered voter, he never cast a ballot and had no formal party affiliation. A spokesperson confirmed that he was once a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but his recent involvement was unclear.
Robinson allegedly confessed the killing to his father and a pastor, initially resisting surrender and considering suicide. His family persuaded him to turn himself in, and he was safely handed over to authorities.
Robinson is being held without bail at Utah County Jail, facing charges of aggravated murder, weapons violations, and obstruction of justice. Federal prosecutors are considering additional charges, potentially opening the door to the death penalty.
FBI Director Kash Patel said: “Charlie, rest easy, brother. We’ve got this.”
Governor Cox condemned the attack as political violence fueled by rapid radicalization, while Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, vowed to continue her husband’s work with Turning Point USA.
The assassination has reignited debate over America’s deepening polarization, with leaders from both sides condemning the act but clashing over its causes.
Authorities also recovered a Mauser .30-caliber bolt-action rifle, wrapped in a towel near the crime scene, matching Robinson’s online chats where he had mentioned concealing a firearm.