Federal investigators confirmed Monday that DNA evidence directly links 22-year-old Tyler Robinson to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, according to FBI Director Kash Patel, as reported [1] by The New York Post.
Speaking on “Fox & Friends,” Patel detailed the evidence gathered from the rooftop sniper’s nest where Robinson allegedly carried out the fatal shooting last Wednesday.
“I can report today that the DNA hits from the towel that was wrapped around the firearm and the DNA from the screwdriver are positively processed for the suspect in custody.”
The towel had been used to cover the murder weapon after it was discarded. Authorities also recovered a screwdriver from the rooftop site, which tested positive for Robinson’s DNA.
Patel noted that additional testing is ongoing for DNA found on the bolt-action hunting rifle believed to have been used in the attack.
Investigators also uncovered a handwritten note in which Robinson allegedly declared his intent to kill Kirk. Patel stated that Robinson wrote he had an opportunity to “take out Charlie Kirk” and that he was “going to take it.”
According to Patel, Robinson’s family informed investigators that he had embraced left-wing ideology, particularly in recent years. “His family has collectively told investigators that he subscribed to left-wing ideology and even more so in these last couple of years,” Patel said.
He also confirmed that authorities are reviewing a “text message exchange” between Robinson and another individual that may shed light on possible accomplices or encouragement.
Robinson is currently being held in a Utah jail under heightened supervision, with reports indicating he is under “special watch.” Patel noted that the suspect has refused to cooperate with federal authorities.
“He claimed that he had an opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and he was going to do it because of his hatred for what Charlie stood for,” Patel added.
Patel credited FBI investigators for their rapid response in tracking Robinson. “If you look at historical cases like [Luigi] Mangione and the Boston [Marathon] bombing, those two manhunts took five days,” he said.
“We apprehended our suspect in 33 hours because we were transparent and open.”
“I can report today that the DNA hits from the towel that was wrapped around the firearm and the DNA on the screwdriver are positively processed for the suspect in custody.”
FBI Director @FBIDirectorKash [2] speaking with @ainsleyearhardt [3], @LawrenceBJones3 [4] and @kilmeade [5] on @FoxNews [6]… pic.twitter.com/rUQgqDOfOl [7]
— StudiGo (@StudiGo_LLC) September 15, 2025 [8]
The investigation into the assassination remains ongoing as authorities continue processing forensic evidence and communications linked to Robinson.
The killing of Kirk, who had been scheduled to speak in Utah as part of his American Comeback Tour, has sparked national outrage and prompted vigils across Washington, D.C., and other cities.