Fact Check: Did Charlie Kirk Praise Shooter Tyler Robinson’s Religion Before His Death?

Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was shot dead at Utah Valley University on September 12. The suspected gunman, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, was arrested after a 33-hour manhunt. A new report claims Kirk spoke warmly about the Mormon faith, the religion Robinson grew up in, just before the attack.

According to news reports, Kirk praised members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during the event. Witnesses say he joked with a Mormon attendee and highlighted their missionary work. Moments later, he was struck in the neck by a bullet fired from outside the venue.

Charlie Kirk’s Comments on Mormon Faith

Kirk was addressing a packed audience at the Utah college when he mentioned his admiration for Mormons. He described them as polite and hardworking and said many of his team members were Mormon. He added that, although he was an evangelical Christian, he respected the LDS church and did not share the hostility some evangelicals have toward it.

Video clips circulated online show Kirk saying, “I love how Mormons send missionaries around the world. I love how polite they are. Half my team is Mormon – Mormons are great people.” His remarks were met with loud applause.

Minutes later, a single rifle shot ended his speech. The audience initially thought it was a stage effect before realizing the gravity of the situation.

Suspect Tyler Robinson’s Background

Police identified Tyler Robinson as the suspected shooter. He was described as a Utah resident raised in the Mormon church but no longer active in it. According to law enforcement, Robinson’s family told investigators that he had become “more political” in recent years.

Authorities said Robinson fired the fatal shot from outside the venue using a hunting rifle. Two shell casings engraved with anti-fascist slogans were later recovered near the scene. Utah Governor Spencer Cox confirmed Robinson’s arrest and credited his family for helping police track him down.

Robinson was detained without incident. Officials confirmed he had discarded the rifle in a wooded area near campus. No clear motive has been established at this stage.

Public Reaction and Ongoing Investigation

The timing of Kirk’s remarks about Mormonism and the fact that Robinson grew up in that faith has fueled intense discussion online. Some commentators speculated on whether the comments had any direct link to the shooter’s actions. Law enforcement, however, has not confirmed any connection.

Investigators continue to examine Robinson’s background, digital activity, and possible ideological influences. Utah officials stressed that the investigation is ongoing and urged the public not to jump to conclusions.

Charlie Kirk’s final words praising the Mormon faith have become a tragic footnote to his death. The suspected shooter, Tyler Robinson, is now in custody, and authorities are working to determine why the attack happened.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Did Charlie Kirk really praise Mormonism before his death?

Yes. Witnesses and video confirm that Kirk spoke positively about the Mormon church just minutes before the attack.

Q2: Who is Tyler Robinson?

Tyler Robinson is a 22-year-old Utah resident identified as the suspect in the shooting of Charlie Kirk. He was arrested after a manhunt.

Q3: Was religion the motive behind the shooting?

Authorities have not confirmed religion as a motive. Robinson’s family said he had become more political in recent years.

Q4: How was the suspect arrested?

Robinson was recognized by his father in surveillance images. The father alerted a family friend who contacted police. He was arrested after 33 hours.

Q5: What weapon was used?

Police said Robinson used a hunting rifle. Shell casings with anti-fascist slogans were found near the scene.