Man, 71, Falsely Claims Shooting TPUSA Founder to Distract Police

False Confession Disrupts Charlie Kirk Shooting Investigation

In Utah, the investigation into the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk briefly took an unexpected turn when a local man falsely confessed to the crime.

The disruption came from 71-year-old George Zinn, who shouted in public that he was the shooter. Witnesses were stunned, but police quickly determined that Zinn was unarmed and uninvolved in the attack.

Authorities later confirmed Zinn had fabricated the story to gain attention. He now faces obstruction of justice charges, with additional counts added after investigators uncovered illegal material on his phone.

The case quickly returned to the true suspect: 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson. Robinson was identified after his parents recognized him from FBI surveillance footage and helped authorities secure his surrender following a statewide manhunt.

Prosecutors have presented strong evidence linking Robinson directly to the crime. DNA found on the rifle’s trigger and a towel wrapped around the weapon matched his samples, leaving little doubt about his role.

Robinson has been charged with aggravated murder and other serious offenses. Prosecutors have announced their intent to seek the death penalty, underscoring the gravity of the case.

Currently, Robinson is being held without bail at Utah County Jail under strict mental health observation. Investigators continue to examine his background and possible motives as court proceedings move forward.

Officials warn that false confessions like Zinn’s can complicate high-profile cases, diverting critical resources and public attention. They urge the community to rely only on verified updates as the trial of Tyler Robinson unfolds in the months ahead.