Many neighbors of Tyler Robinson, the suspect in the murder of Charlie Kirk, were surprised to hear the news because they saw him as a “very normal” and “peaceful” person.
The quiet neighborhood of Washington, Utah, has been the center of attention since Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old college student who lived in the area, was arrested by police for fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Orem earlier this week. Police cars and media swarmed the neighborhood on September 12.
Many neighbors were shocked by the news of Robinson’s murder. Kristen Schwerman, who lives a few doors down from the Robinsons, said she had known the family for years and described the 22-year-old as a gentle person despite being quite private.
“I’m sure most people in the neighborhood are shocked because they’ve lived here for a long time and known him since he was a kid. My impression of Tyler is that he’s a quiet kid, very smart, has a calm personality and has never caused any problems,” Schwerman said.
Melissa Tait, 55, who lives next door to Robinson, said Robinson and his family were “just like any other neighbor” and “they’re no different than my family.” “It’s unfortunate that their son made a really bad decision,” she said.
The suspect was reported by his family after his father recognized him in police photos and video and alerted a friend. Robinson’s motive for the crime is unclear.
In a phone interview on September 12, a high school friend of Robinson’s said the suspect had expressed criticism of President Donald Trump a few years ago, despite his family being conservative. However, the friend was unsure about Robinson’s recent political views because the two had not been in touch since graduation.
Election records show Robinson was not affiliated with any political party ahead of the 2024 election. His parents are registered Republicans.
Miles Meloni, a 14-year-old neighbor of the Robinsons and a supporter of Charlie Kirk, is “deeply saddened” by what the Robinsons and Kirks have endured. Meloni is concerned about political violence in the United States and wants to see change.
“I think if a family sees signs of violent thoughts in their loved one, they need to take their child, their relative, their friend, whoever, and seek help,” Meloni said.
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