Suspect's Father Played a Crucial Role in Urging Surrender
Some Argue, "The Reward Should Be Donated to Kirk's Organization"
On September 16, prosecutors in Utah formally charged Tyler Robinson, the suspect who shot and killed Charlie Kirk, the head of Turning Point USA, on September 10, with aggravated murder and felony discharge of a firearm. Meanwhile, controversy has erupted over who will receive the reward money, which has swelled to over 1 million dollars (approximately 1.379 billion won).
A scene commemorating American conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was killed on the 10th. Photo by AP News Agency
On September 16 (local time), foreign media outlets such as the New York Post reported on the rumors and debates surrounding the suspect in Charlie Kirk's murder, publishing articles titled "Who Will Get the Over $1 Million Reward?" Robinson, the suspect in Kirk's murder, was apprehended just 33 hours after the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued a wanted notice-a remarkably short period. Initially, the FBI offered a reward of 100,000 dollars, but as conservative figures contributed additional funds to support the search for Kirk's shooter, the reward amount increased significantly.
Robinson's father recognized his son in the suspect photos released by authorities. Notably, Robinson confessed to the crime at the urging of his father, who has 27 years of experience working in law enforcement. During the arrest process, Robinson's father encouraged his son to turn himself in and asked a pastor acquaintance to help persuade him, playing a crucial role in the operation. Utah Governor Spencer Cox stated, "The Robinson family expressed their intention for him to surrender to an acquaintance, who then contacted the authorities to report it," adding, "I want to thank the Robinson family for making the right choice." The family also provided investigators with clues regarding Robinson's motive. Cox said, "Robinson's family testified that he had changed politically in recent years."
Conservative Donations Dramatically Increase Reward Amount
The shock to the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement following Kirk's death was considerable. Alex Bruesewitz, who previously advised President Donald Trump on youth outreach and communications, and conservative activist Robby Starbuck each pledged to donate 25,000 dollars.
A scene commemorating American conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was killed on the 10th. Photo by AP News Agency
Subsequently, Bill Ackman, a Wall Street hedge fund magnate who supported Trump in the last presidential election, pledged 1 million dollars, causing the reward amount to surge to 1.15 million dollars. Immediately after Robinson's arrest, a heated debate erupted on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) over whether Robinson's father was entitled to receive the reward. False news also spread, claiming that the father had decided to donate the reward to Kirk's family.
In the United States, rewards for information on crimes and terrorism are typically managed under the State Department's "Rewards for Justice" program. Claiming the reward involves navigating a complex, multi-step process. A committee composed of representatives from various agencies discusses the legitimacy of the reward claim and makes a final recommendation to the Secretary of State. However, the New York Post noted, "The committee's recommendation is not binding, so Secretary of State Marco Rubio has full discretion," adding, "Even if approved, the reward amount can be changed."
Starbuck stated, "If Robinson's father receives the reward, he must donate it to Turning Point USA." Ackman also said, "The FBI will pay the reward to whoever is identified as providing the information," but added, "If Robinson's father was involved in Kirk's death, the reward could be reclaimed through civil or criminal litigation."
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