URGENT UPDATE: In a shocking twist following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on July 12, 2023, disturbing revelations have emerged regarding Tyler Robinson, the suspected gunman. Just hours after Kirk’s death, Robinson engaged in a series of sick jokes with friends on Discord, raising questions about his mindset during the ongoing manhunt.
On July 13, at approximately 1 p.m. local time, a member of a Discord group messaged Robinson, comparing his appearance to that of a young man captured in grainy surveillance photos from Utah Valley University. The police had released these images as part of their appeal for public tips to locate the suspect. The man asked Robinson, “wya” (where you at) alongside a skull emoji, insinuating that he resembled the alleged shooter.
Robinson responded almost immediately, dismissing the accusation by claiming it was merely his “doppelganger” trying to “get me in trouble.” Another user sarcastically quipped, “Tyler killed Charlie!!!!” These messages have been shared with The New York Times by an acquaintance who feared backlash for their connection to Robinson.
36 hours later, on July 14, Robinson was arrested on suspicion of murdering Kirk in a harrowing incident that has captivated and horrified the public. The Discord exchanges provide a chilling glimpse into Robinson’s state of mind during the critical hours after the shooting.
The FBI is currently offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to the gunman’s capture, prompting discussions in the chat about turning Robinson in. He jokingly replied, “Only if I get a cut,” illustrating a disturbing lack of seriousness regarding the gravity of the situation.
In another dark exchange, Robinson appeared to reference a potential manifesto and weaponry in a jest, saying, “better also get rid of this manifesto and exact copy rifle I have lying around.” This alarming comment raises further concerns about his intentions and mental state.
Authorities report that Robinson is expected to be formally charged with Kirk’s murder on July 18, 2023. As of now, it remains unclear whether he has secured legal representation. The investigation continues to unfold, with many questioning the motive behind the shooting. According to an affidavit, Robinson had previously expressed disdain for Kirk during discussions with family members.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of Kirk’s death, the discourse surrounding political motivations and blame intensifies. The messages exchanged in the Discord chat reflect a troubling detachment from the severity of the crime, as users struggled to comprehend the reality of Robinson’s involvement. “Our governor wants to give him the death penalty, dude,” one user remarked, while another stated, “I truly cannot distinguish if this is for real.”
Robinson’s eventual surrender occurred in Southwestern Utah, more than a three-hour drive from the site of the shooting. Authorities are urging anyone with further information to come forward as they work to piece together the events leading up to this tragic incident.
The implications of this case extend beyond the immediate violence; it raises urgent questions about the intersection of politics, social media, and violence in today’s society. As the investigation continues, all eyes are on the forthcoming developments in this alarming case.
