OREM, Utah (AP) — On Monday, FBI Director Kash Patel revealed that DNA evidence found on a towel wrapped around a rifle associated with the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk matched that of the 22-year-old suspect, Tyler Robinson. Investigators also identified the suspect's DNA on a screwdriver uncovered on a nearby rooftop. Authorities in Utah are set to charge Robinson with capital murder, potentially as soon as Tuesday, in the shooting of Kirk, who was killed during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University. Kirk was widely recognized for his role in conservative politics and was a close ally of former President Donald Trump.

The incident has heightened concerns regarding political violence amid a climate of polarization in the United States. Reports indicate that Robinson harbored vitriolic sentiments towards Kirk and embraced a leftist ideology. Utah Governor Spencer Cox noted that Robinson had reportedly spent significant time in the darker corners of the internet, amplifying fears of extreme radicalization.

Robinson allegedly confessed in a destroyed note about his intention to kill Kirk, and his actions have drawn attention due to engravings on ammunition used during the assassination that included anti-fascist messaging. Currently, the suspect is not cooperating with law enforcement. Mourners across the nation have paid tribute to Kirk, marking the incident's deep societal impact. Vice President JD Vance voiced his respect for Kirk, planning to honor him during a broadcast of Kirk's talk show.