Neighbors react to arrest of suspect in manhunt for Charlie Kirk shooter

WASHINGTON CITY, Utah (ABC4) — ABC4 spoke with Washington City locals who witnessed the arrest of Tyler Robinson, the suspected shooter in the murder of Charlie Kirk at a Utah Valley University event on Wednesday, Sept. 10.

Robinson, 22, was identified by his father after the father saw surveillance footage images released by police, officials said. He was later arrested in Washington City.

ABC4’s Southern Utah reporter, Cannon Secrist, spoke with two residents from Robinson’s area who shared in their disbelief of recent events.

“It was absolutely stunning. It was shocking — so unexpected in St. George,” one resident said. “It just doesn’t happen in St. George. I mean, I don’t even lock my doors at night… and to have something like this a mile and a half away from me doesn’t fit the profile.”

Another resident couldn’t believe someone from their community would have part in such a crime. “It shocks us… but I never would have thought it would be anyone from here,” the second resident added.

The Washington County Commission issued the following statement on Robinson’s arrest:

“To hear that the perpetrator of such terrible political violence was raised in our beautiful community is profoundly shocking. Washington County, like Charlie Kirk himself, stands for the values of faith, freedom, the pursuit of happiness, and justice. A piece of our hearts will forever be with the Kirk family, and we pray that God will continue to watch over them.

We are immensely grateful to our local law enforcement for their swift, coordinated action alongside federal authorities to investigate and arrest the suspected shooter, who has now been transported out of the area. In this moment, we must hold our loved ones close. Furthermore, we must tone down radical rhetoric and reflect on the importance of our words and actions.

Charlie’s mission—among other things, and the foundation of America—is simple: encourage peaceful dialogue. On this dark day, we call on all Americans to turn down radical rhetoric and remember the American ideals that Charlie, and our county, have proudly stood for—and will continue to uphold.”