Americanswers…on 5 Live! Who is Tyler Robinson, Charlie Kirk’s suspected killer?

Sep 15, 2025

This week, Kim Darroch, former US Ambassador and key organizer of Donald Trump's first state visit, shares fascinating insights on high-stakes diplomacy. He discusses the meticulous planning behind state visits and the evolving political landscape following Charlie Kirk's shooting. The team analyzes Tyler Robinson's motives and the broader societal implications of the tragedy, exploring the cultural divide over gun violence between the US and the UK. It's a compelling conversation blending politics, media, and personal stories.

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INSIGHT

Polarisation Escalated By High-Profile Killing

The killing of Charlie Kirk has dramatically intensified US political polarisation and calls for vengeance.
Hosts warn the rhetoric from both left and right risks further violence and social destabilisation.

INSIGHT

Online Trolling Clouds Motive

Tyler Robinson's online traces complicate motive analysis and invite competing narratives.
Much of the bullet-case engraving looks like internet trolling rather than a clear political manifesto.

ANECDOTE

Personal Struggles Amid Online Extremism

Justin and Sarah discuss Robinson's troubled background, including Mormon upbringing and a transgender partner.
They suggest personal turmoil and online extremism, not straightforward party politics, may have driven him.

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What do we know, and not know, about Tyler Robinson - the 22 year old man who has become the main suspect in the shooting of the conservative activist and influencer Charlie Kirk? After a 33 hour manhunt, investigators say Robinson’s father recognised him from images released to the public, and persuaded his son to hand himself in. Sarah, Marianna and Justin unpack the various theories around Robinson’s possible motive, how the case is developing and the continuing political fallout from the shooting.

Also, in the week of the US president’s historical second state visit to the UK we get a behind the scenes insight into Trump’s first visit, with the former US Ambassador, Lord Kim Darroch, who helped organise it. How are decisions made over itinerary and agenda? How much politics is likely to be discussed? And as Keir Starmer explains his decision to sack the current ambassador, Lord Mandelson, did he make the right decision at the right time?

HOSTS: • Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter • Sarah Smith, North America Editor • Marianna Spring, Social Media Investigations Senior Correspondent

GET IN TOUCH: • Join our online community: https://discord.gg/qSrxqNcmRB • Send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 123 9480 • Email Americast@bbc.co.uk • Or use #Americast

This episode was made by Rufus Gray and Alix Pickles. The technical producer was Chris Murphy. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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