The motive and the political ideology of 22-year-old Tyler Robinson are being widely debated in the US. Some conservatives call him a left-wing extremist, while liberals point to his upbringing in a Trump-friendly family in Utah.
Tyler Robinson could be arrested on Friday after his father recognized him from the images that had been circulating from surveillance cameras. The father then spoke with a youth pastor, who called the police authorities. Subsequently, the father persuaded Robinson to surrender, which was crucial in ending the 33-hour-long hunt, according to the media.
"Cooperative"
Investigators now believe that Kirk's views on gender identity may be the key to the motive behind the murder of the conservative influencer, whose death has shaken American politics.
According to six sources with insight into the case, Tyler Robinson had a romantic relationship with his roommate, who was born a man and has initiated gender-affirming care.
An FBI official tells Fox News that the roommate has been "extremely cooperative" and is currently not charged with any crime in connection with the murder.
Evidence from the apartment
According to the FBI's information to Fox News, the police authorities have come across text messages and other communication between Robinson and his partner, which have helped the agents to track down Robinson. The officials state that the FBI has taken evidence from their apartment, including computers, which have been sent for examination.
Charlie Kirk, who traveled to college campuses and challenged progressive students to debate with him, was an outspoken opponent of trans surgery for minors and of trans people competing in women's sports. He was shot dead on Wednesday when he made an appearance at a university in Utah.
Kristoffer Viita/TT
Facts: Charlie Kirk
TT
Influencer and right-wing debater Charlie Kirk was shot dead when he spoke in front of a large crowd at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, American time.
The 31-year-old father of small children has been described as a superstar within the American right. He was close to President Donald Trump and it was Trump who, a few hours after the shooting, announced the death via social media.
At the age of 18, Kirk co-founded the conservative student organization Turning Point USA and is said to have been a contributing factor to why so many young people voted for Trump in last year's election.
Kirk's casket was taken to the city of Phoenix in Arizona on Thursday with the help of Air Force Two, the US Vice President's plane. On board were Kirk's widow and Vice President JD Vance.
Charlie Kirk will posthumously be awarded the US's highest honor for civilians, announced Trump on Thursday.
