A former FBI agent and Utah Valley University professor has raised concerns about an increase in political violence that threatens everyday citizens, not just political figures, after the assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, on campus on September 10. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, allegedly radicalized quickly, prompting Professor Greg Rogers to advocate for parents to monitor their children’s online activities.
The professor, who spent 30 years in the FBI, including as a SWAT sniper, highlighted that incidents such as the Minneapolis church shooting and the Charlie Kirk assassination represent a shift from targeting high-profile political figures to ordinary citizens for their political views. He noted that while political assassinations are not new, their frequency has increased, underscoring the growing risk.
Robinson, a 22-year-old electrician apprentice, reportedly experienced a radical ideological shift in the past year, supporting more pro-gay and trans rights, according to court documents. His alleged confession, including text messages and online postings, revealed his motivations, suggesting a deep-seated frustration with Kirk’s views. The suspect’s actions, including etching memes onto bullet casings, mirrored patterns seen in other politically motivated assassinations.
Professor Rogers emphasized the role of online echo chambers in radicalization, urging parents to be more attentive to their children’s digital interactions. He pointed out that accessing a child’s online activity is a parental responsibility and that monitoring can prevent potential radicalization. The professor’s class, which usually focuses on serial killers, now includes discussions on the implications of the Kirk case for criminal profilers.
Robinson faces charges including aggravated murder, which could carry the death penalty in Utah, and may also face federal charges. Kirk, a 31-year-old father of two, was co-founder of Turning Point USA and was speaking on campus when he was killed. The UVU chapter had sponsored the event, raising concerns about campus safety. Professor Rogers stressed the importance of ensuring student safety while acknowledging the complexity of the issue.