A 71-year-old Utah man, George Zinn, was arrested for obstruction of justice after falsely claiming responsibility for the fatal shooting of political commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.
Moments after the incident, Zinn reportedly shouted, “I shot him — now shoot me,” prompting police to detain him. When questioned about the weapon, he refused to cooperate, later retracting his confession and admitting he had no involvement in the attack. Authorities believe he made the false confession to distract investigators or draw attention to himself.
During a search of his phone, officers discovered over 20 images of child sexual abuse material, leading to additional charges of sexual exploitation of minors. Zinn also had a criminal history involving bomb threats and other disturbances. He is currently being held without bail.
The original person of interest, George Zinn, 71, has allegedly confessed that he pretended to have shot Charlie Kirk to help the real killer escape.
He is being held without bond and charged with felony obstruction. pic.twitter.com/ltgCG5VAjJ
— National Conservative (@NatCon2022) September 16, 2025
The Actual Suspect: Tyler Robinson
After a two-day manhunt, Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old from Washington County, Utah, was arrested and charged with capital murder and several other serious offenses. Prosecutors have announced their intent to seek the death penalty.
Investigators say DNA found on the trigger of the rifle matched Robinson’s, and he appeared in court virtually to face charges including:
- Aggravated murder
- Felony discharge of a firearm causing serious injury
- Obstruction of justice
- Witness tampering
- Commission of a violent offense in the presence of a child
During the hearing, Robinson spoke only to confirm his name.
Digital Confessions and Motive
Before his arrest, Robinson posted a message online admitting to the shooting and apologizing to his followers. He also referenced Zinn’s false confession, joking that police had “grabbed some crazy old dude.”
In further exchanges, Robinson expressed anger toward what he described as “too much evil” and criticized Kirk’s political influence. When questioned by his parents about his motives, he said he couldn’t face imprisonment and wanted to end his life.
