Charlie Kirk suspect Tyler Robinson’s own comments may act as ‘devastating’ court evidence, says expert
OREM, UTAH: Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old Utah man accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, may have seriously harmed his own defense before stepping into a courtroom.
According to former FBI deputy director Andrew McCabe, Robinson’s reported remarks to both a roommate and a family member will likely be admissible as evidence, potentially strengthening the government’s case.
Charlie Kirk suspect’s statements under scrutiny
“Those statements will be devastating to him down the road,” McCabe told CNN. “They’ll be admissible, certainly at this stage where he’s first charged with an offense. I expect you’ll see those statements in the affidavit supporting the initial charge. Depending on Utah evidence law, they could also be admitted at trial.”
Robinson was taken into custody early Friday after what officials described as a swift but intensive investigation following Kirk’s killing at Utah Valley University.
While investigators currently believe Robinson acted alone, McCabe stressed that the inquiry is still in its early stages. “The government has a lot to work with,” he said.
Tyler Robinson's roommate’s role raises questions
Investigators discovered Robinson’s online activity and communications with his roommate, including text and Discord messages, which appear to have played a key role in locating and arresting him.
McCabe noted that the roommate’s awareness of Robinson’s plans remains a central question.
“It seems to indicate that the roommate had some knowledge about what he was doing,” McCabe explained. “The question was, did he know the entire plan? And if he did, did he assist or support it in any way? If he agreed with Robinson and took any step furthering the crime, he could be considered a co-conspirator.”
“It doesn't mean he will be charged,” he added, “but investigators would want to take a very close look at him.”
Authorities have not released the roommate’s name. Investigators say the individual has been cooperating, but McCabe cautioned the case could “go in any direction,” depending on the roommate’s knowledge, particularly regarding the rifle allegedly used.
Perhaps the most incriminating detail involves what Robinson allegedly told a family member.
“It’s really remarkable,” McCabe said. “A family member had suspicions, likely based on photographs, and confronted him. In that conversation, Robinson made statements amounting to a confession.”
