CINCINNATI, Ohio — Authorities investigating the September 10 assassination of activist Charlie Kirk are expanding their probe to examine online communities and several left-leaning organizations, including one Utah-based group that appeared to delete its social-media presence immediately after the killing, according to sources familiar with the inquiry.
Focus on Armed Queers SLC
Among the groups under review is Armed Queers Salt Lake City (Armed Queers SLC), which has publicly described itself as training and organizing LGBTQ+ individuals to defend their communities.
Archived materials show the group promoted events in 2023 that leaned heavily on radical protest imagery. One flyer for a lecture at the University of Utah featured a rainbow flag, a hammer-and-sickle symbol, and ammunition graphics. In past interviews, representatives of the group stated their activism was rooted in opposition to racism, transphobia, and capitalism — and that they accepted personal risk in service of their mission.
According to investigators, at least one of the group’s social-media accounts was taken down on the day of Kirk’s death.
Looking at Digital Footprints
Investigators are reviewing whether individuals tied to the group — or to other online spaces, including gaming platforms and social pages — had prior knowledge of or offered support to the alleged shooter, Tyler Robinson.
Authorities have also catalogued numerous social-media posts that referenced Kirk in the days leading up to the assassination. Many of those posts have since been deleted or set to private. Screenshots and reposts are being examined to verify their authenticity and determine whether they represent credible threats or merely online rhetoric.
Law-enforcement officials caution that much of the material remains unverified and that investigators are taking care to distinguish between hyperbolic speech and genuine evidence of planning or intent.
Exploring Motive
Investigators are also probing Robinson’s personal circumstances. According to officials, they are exploring whether Robinson’s relationship with a transgender roommate may have overlapped with political or ideological grievances. The roommate, who has been cooperating with authorities, told investigators they were “aghast” at the killing.
State officials confirmed that electronic communications and other evidence are being reviewed to better understand Robinson’s motive.
Broad Investigation, No Charges Against Groups
At this stage, authorities emphasize that no organization has been formally linked to criminal coordination or charged in connection with Kirk’s assassination. The review of online posts and affiliations is part of a broader effort to determine whether Robinson acted entirely alone or received assistance.
Civil-liberties advocates and community leaders have cautioned against drawing premature conclusions, noting the importance of not conflating constitutionally protected political speech or lawful training activities with acts of violence absent clear evidence.
Call for Information
The investigation remains active with federal, state, and local agencies collaborating. Officials are urging anyone with credible information to come forward as they continue working to piece together the circumstances behind one of the most shocking political assassinations in recent memory.
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