FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced on Monday that investigators are exploring whether the individual accused of trying to assassinate Charlie Kirk acted alone or was part of a larger conspiracy. Bongino also indicated concerning signs that the suspect may have been influenced by a strong ideological belief preceding the incident.
Bongino told Fox News’ “America’s Newsroom” that although one suspect is in custody, the bureau is “looking into” possible accomplices.
“We’re examining the possibility of a wider scheme, including any assistance received by the suspect—financial or otherwise—or if anyone was aware of the details and failed to report them,” he told Bill Hemmer on Monday. “We’re ensuring that every potential lead is thoroughly investigated.”
The booking photos for Tyler Robinson, 22, the suspect in the Utah assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. (Utah Gov. Spencer Cox)
Even as the investigation progresses, Bongino highlighted a distinct motive: “It’s evident that this was an attack driven by ideology.”
“Charlie Kirk, a conservative commentator, tragically lost his life while encouraging people to engage with his ideas, which is foundational to our constitutional republic,” he stated.
Charlie Kirk poses at The Cambridge Union on May 19, 2025, in Cambridge, Cambridgeshire. (Nordin Catic/Getty Images for The Cambridge Union)
Bongino, who described Kirk as a close personal friend, added that the FBI’s rapid response should reassure the public.
“We apprehended the suspect in 33 hours. In future crises, we’ll evaluate our responses to excel and improve,” he added. “We can enhance our performance moving forward.”
