1st man arrested in connection with Charlie Kirk shooting wanted to help shooter escape, documents say
Share this @internewscast.com

OREM, Utah (ABC4) — The initial arrest following the tragic shooting of Charlie Kirk involved a man who reportedly shouted, “I shot him, now shoot me” right after the incident, in an alleged effort to divert attention from the actual shooter, as outlined in newly submitted documents.

George Zinn, aged 71, was apprehended after the shooting, but he was ultimately exonerated from direct involvement in the incident. His arrest was based on suspicions of obstructing justice.

Law enforcement now has a suspect detained for the crime. On September 11, Tyler Robinson, aged 22, was apprehended after confessing to a relative that he was responsible for the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk.

Per the affidavit of probable cause submitted on Tuesday, Zinn reportedly approached an officer immediately following the shooting, exclaiming, “I shot him, now shoot me.” The officer, unable to observe a weapon, handcuffed him. When questioned about the gun’s whereabouts, he allegedly responded, “I am not going to tell you.”

Zinn was detained moments after Charlie Kirk was shot. (KTVX)

During his transport to the UVU Police Department, Zinn allegedly persisted in claiming responsibility for shooting Kirk and urged the officer to shoot him in return. Once at the department, Zinn was informed of his rights and requested legal counsel.

The affidavit further reveals that after requesting an attorney, without any prompting from investigators, Zinn declared he was not the shooter and admitted to claiming so in an effort to mislead authorities and protect the true perpetrator.

Zinn was later taken to the hospital because of a medical condition, and Zinn reportedly told an officer that he was glad he said he shot the individual so the real suspect could get away. He also said he “wanted to be a martyr for the person who was shot,” according to the probable cause statement.

He was admitted to the hospital and released on September 15, and he was then booked into the Utah County Jail on suspicion of obstruction of justice in a capital/first-degree felony case, which is a second-degree felony.

Information on 2nd suspect arrested

The Department of Public Safety identified the second individual taken into custody as Zachariah Qureshi. Qureshi, 25, is a resident of Provo and returned Latter-day Saint missionary. He attended the event as a supporter, his family says. Qureshi’s father told ABC4.com that his son was “mistakenly detained” by police and that his son had absolutely no role in the assassination.

Qureshi said his family has received online harassment since Wednesday’s events. He says his family’s home address in Texas was even posted online.

Suspect in court

The suspect, Tyler Robinson, was arrested on the evening of Sept. 11 in Washington County, UT. His initial appearance is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 16. The hearing will be virtual, and Robinson will appear remotely.

He was arrested on charges of aggravated murder, a first-degree felony; felony discharge of a firearm – causing serious bodily injury, a first-degree felony; and obstruction of justice – capital/first-degree felony conduct, a second-degree felony.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Jefferson County Paramedic Faces Charges for Alleged Minor Exploitation

A paramedic from Jefferson County has been suspended following his arrest on…

Vermilion County Welcomes New Coordinator to Lead ‘Toys for Tots’ Holiday Efforts

VERMILION COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA) — As the holiday season approaches, Vermilion County’s…

Citi Foundation Commits $25 Million to Combat Youth Unemployment and Address AI-Induced Labor Shifts

NEW YORK – Navigating today’s dynamic job market has become a daunting…

Hampton Fire Chief Shares Insights on Response Times Following Helene Storm

In Elizabethton, Tennessee, the Hampton Volunteer Fire Department is grappling with delays…

Exposing the Chaos: Insider Revelations Unveil the Shocking Reality of Local Nursing Home

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. — A group of both former and current staff…

Port Wentworth Ice Cove Celebrates Milestone with Beam Topping Ceremony

PORT WENTWORTH, Ga. – Tuesday marked a significant milestone for Port Wentworth’s…

Western Balkans Leaders Convene in London for Critical Discussions on Migration and Security

LONDON – This week, London becomes the focal point for crucial discussions…

Study Reveals Tennessee’s High Exposure to Tariff Impacts

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — According to a recent analysis by the Pew…

Holocaust Exhibit Premieres in Champaign, Bringing Museum Experience to Visitors

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – In a significant collaborative effort, three organizations came…

Urgent Search: Police Seek Public’s Help in Locating Missing Person Melodee Buzzard

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office has issued a critical update regarding…

Atlanta Airport Threat: Federal Prosecutors Take Action Against Suspect in Chilling Shooting Plot

ATLANTA – On Tuesday, federal prosecutors filed charges against a Georgia man,…

Israel Confirms Identities of Two Hostages as U.S. Diplomat Vance Readies for Netanyahu Meeting

In Tel Aviv, Israel, a significant development unfolded as the office of…