Utah Authorities Dispute Claims About Alleged Shooter’s Messages

Utah authorities have clarified that the alleged shooter of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk did not reference transgender ideology in messages found on bullet casings. The controversy erupted after a report from the Wall Street Journal claimed that messages supporting transgender beliefs were inscribed on bullets associated with Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old suspect. This assertion ignited widespread outrage among conservative circles.

At a press conference on Friday morning, Utah Governor Spencer Cox provided details about the inscriptions on the casings, stating that they primarily referenced internet meme culture and anti-fascism. According to Cox, one bullet casing was inscribed with the phrase “Hey fascist! Catch!” He emphasized that none of the messages related to the transgender community.

Another casing featured “Bella ciao,” a phrase linked to a famous anti-fascist song from World War II. Additionally, Cox noted that some unfired bullets included phrases from video games, including one that read, “Up arrow, right arrow, and three down arrow symbols,” likely referencing a command in the video game Helldivers. Another casing had the message, “Notices bulges OWO what’s this?”

Cox characterized Kirk’s killing as a “political assassination,” asserting its significance goes beyond the loss of one individual. “It is an attack on all of us,” Cox stated. “It is an attack on the American experiment. It is an attack on our ideals.”

Robinson surrendered to authorities late on the evening of September 28, 2023, after his father reported him, following discussions with family members. When pressed for details about Robinson’s motive, Cox indicated he could not provide that information at this time.

The aftermath of Kirk’s murder has led to heightened tensions within political circles. Prominent media figures, including those from Fox News, have called for action in light of the incident. As the investigation continues, it remains crucial for authorities to provide clarity on the motivations behind this act of violence.