FBI Director Kash Patel has disclosed new forensic evidence in the Charlie Kirk assassination investigation, revealing what the alleged shooter left behind on the rooftop where the fatal shot was fired. Investigators recovered a screwdriver and a towel wrapped around the rifle, both of which tested positive for DNA belonging to the suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson. Authorities described the discovery as one of the most significant developments in the high-profile case.
According to Patel, the towel was used to conceal and transport the rifle before it was abandoned near a wooded area close to the scene. Testing confirmed that the DNA samples extracted from the towel matched Robinson. The screwdriver, which was discovered at the exact spot from which authorities believe the single shot was fired, also carried Robinson’s genetic material. Officials said the evidence strongly tied the suspect to both the weapon and the rooftop location, giving prosecutors a powerful foundation for their case.
The tragedy unfolded on September 10 at Utah Valley University, where conservative activist Charlie Kirk, 31, was addressing a crowd of nearly 3,000 people under a tent. Kirk was struck in the neck by a bullet fired from a rooftop approximately 140 yards away. He was rushed to a hospital but died about 90 minutes later. Witnesses reported panic and chaos, with some students fleeing while others froze in disbelief. Investigators later confirmed that they recovered not only the rifle but also palm and forearm impressions and shoe prints that matched Robinson.
Robinson was arrested in Washington, Utah, after his father recognized him in surveillance footage released by the FBI and persuaded him to surrender. The arrest shocked the community and divided his family. His grandmother described him as a shy young man uninterested in politics and incapable of violence, while his father expressed anguish but insisted that turning him in was the only responsible choice. Robinson, who had no prior felony record, now faces charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, and obstruction of justice. Officials have signaled they will pursue detention without bail.
In addition to the physical evidence left on the rooftop, investigators pointed to digital and written communications allegedly tying Robinson to premeditation. According to law enforcement, Robinson exchanged Discord messages that referenced plans to target Kirk. A handwritten note, now destroyed but documented by investigators, reportedly outlined his intent. While defense attorneys are expected to challenge the admissibility of these materials, prosecutors are confident that the combination of DNA evidence, surveillance footage, and witness testimony will prove decisive in court.
As the nation continues to grapple with the loss of Charlie Kirk, the evidence revealed by Patel provides a clearer picture of how the attack was carried out. The screwdriver and towel, seemingly minor items, may prove pivotal in establishing Robinson’s presence on the rooftop and his direct involvement in the shooting. Prosecutors are preparing to present the case, while Turning Point USA has vowed to carry on Kirk’s mission, describing him as a “voice for a generation.” The trial, still months away, is expected to intensify debates about political violence, security at public events, and the growing influence of online extremism in American life.
