Law enforcement authorities have confirmed the apprehension of Tyler Robinson, a person of interest in a security incident involving conservative commentator and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) reports that the suspect was taken into custody without incident following a tip from a immediate family member.
The investigation remains ongoing.
CHRONOLOGY OF EVENTS
The incident unfolded earlier this evening at approximately 6:45 PM local time. Mr. Kirk had just concluded a speaking event at the Phoenix Convention Center, part of a nationwide tour organized by Turning Point USA.
Preliminary reports from law enforcement sources indicate that as Mr. Kirk was departing the venue via a secure loading dock, a single audible discharge was heard by members of his security detail and nearby law enforcement officers. The sound was initially reported as a “potential firearm discharge.”
The immediate area was secured by the Phoenix Police Department’s Event Security Unit, who were already on-site. Mr. Kirk was swiftly evacuated to a secure location by his protective detail. An initial sweep of the area was conducted.
Approximately 39 minutes after the initial report, at the MCSO received a direct call from the father of Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old resident of Tempe, AZ. The individual informed dispatchers that his son was responsible for the incident and provided his current location. Deputies from the MCSO’s Fugitive Apprehension Unit responded to a residence in east Tempe and took Tyler Robinson into custody without resistance.
OFFICIAL STATEMENTS
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office: In a press briefing,Sheriff Elias Johns provided a brief statement: “We can confirm an individual has been detained in connection with the security incident at the Phoenix Convention Center this evening. The suspect was identified and located thanks to a crucial tip from a member of the public. The investigation is in its earliest stages, and we are working to determine the full circumstances, including the type of device discharged and the intended target. No injuries have been reported at this time. The suspect is currently being held for questioning.”
Turning Point USA: A spokesperson for Turning Point USA issued the following statement:”We are aware of the situation and are fully cooperating with local law enforcement. Charlie Kirk is safe and secure. We are thankful for the swift actions of the Phoenix PD and the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. Out of an abundance of caution, all further public comments will be deferred to the investigating authorities.”
THE SUSPECT
Tyler Robinson is currently being held at a MCSO holding facility. Official charges are pending the outcome of the investigation. Law enforcement sources indicate that a potential weapon and related evidence were recovered from the suspect’s residence.
Online speculation, including calls to find the “Supplier” and references to an unexplained “Revival Package,” has not been acknowledged or commented on by any official agency. Authorities have urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information that could compromise the integrity of the investigation.
NEXT STEPS
The Phoenix Police Department, in conjunction with the MCSO and federal partners, is processing the scene, reviewing security footage, and interviewing witnesses. The FBI has been notified as a matter of standard protocol for incidents involving high-profile public figures.
About the Author
