Kash Patel's big update on famous Tyler Robinson theory ahead of Charlie Kirk's funeral

A viral theory linking a plane to Charlie Kirk’s death was debunked; FBI and FAA said the transponder stayed on, gaps were due to incomplete rural data.

Published on: Sep 21, 2025, 23:45:28 IST

By Shamik Banerjee

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On Sunday, ahead of Charlie Kirk's funeral in Arizona, FBI Director Kash Patel provided a comprehensive update on the agency's probe into Kirk's death earlier this month. With the suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, in custody, the FBI is now investigating all possible angles and motives that could have prompted the incident on September 10.

Patel's update on Saturday addressed all the theories that have come up since the murder of Kirk at Utah Valley University. Among the theories surrounding his death, perhaps the least talked about one is what is being called the 'plane theory.'

What is the plane theory?

The plane theory behind Charlie Kirk's death stems from a viral claim. Based on radar information, some users claimed that a plane, having departed from an airport near the location of the shooting, allegedly turned off its transponders. Patel said that he will be able to confirm the details on Kirk's investigation "when answers are confirmed."

However, the FBI boss confirmed that the agency has conducted interviews with the pilot, as well as consultations with the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) confirmed that the responder was not turned off. Regarding the flight data that was cited to make the claim, Patel said: "Incomplete flight data in rural areas caused the apparent gap."

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Charlie Kirk investigation update

The suspect in the assassination of Charlie Kirk, Tyler Robinson, made his first court appearance in Provo, Utah, on Tuesday, September 16. A total of seven counts of charges were pressed against him, the Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray announced.

They include aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, two counts of obstruction of justice, two counts of witness tampering, and committing a violent offense in the presence of a child.

Robinson is being held at the Utah County Jail without bail.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shamik Banerjee
Shamik is a journalist covering the United States for Hindustan Times. He has more than four years of experience reporting on US politics, sports, and major breaking stories across fast-moving cycles. He previously worked at Times Now and Sportskeeda, building strong newsroom instincts and digital storytelling skills. At HT.com, he focuses on day-to-day coverage of US political developments while also handling high-impact stories that demand speed, accuracy, clarity, and context under pressure. Shamik has extensive experience covering NFL game days over the past two years, coordinating live updates, analysis, and explainers. He is particularly drawn to large news moments such as US elections and the Super Bowl, where he thrives at the news desk working alongside the team. He holds degrees in Media Studies from Jamia Millia Islamia and English Literature from Jadavpur University. Before entering journalism, he briefly worked in digital marketing and political consultancy roles. Currently a Senior Content Producer at HT Digital, he is driven by curiosity, discipline, and a constant desire to explore new and obscure topics. Outside work, he enjoys reading, films, sports, and learning continuously.Read More

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