Gun that killed Charlie Kirk is WWI-era rifle that may be untraceable
The rifle recovered is a Mauser 98 model. Mauser
The rifle allegedly used by Tyler Robinson to assassinate conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was so old that it lacked a serial number — making it virtually impossible to trace, according to investigators.
Robinson, 33, reportedly used a vintage Mauser Model 98 rifle, a German-made firearm dating back to the early 20th century, to shoot and kill Kirk during an outdoor event at Utah Valley University. The weapon, referred to in Robinson’s texts as “grandpa’s rifle,” predates federal serial number requirements enacted in the wake of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1963.
The Mauser 98, a bolt-action, 30-06 caliber rifle, was standard issue for German troops in both World Wars. Although millions were brought back to the U.S. by returning soldiers, many — like the one allegedly used in the Kirk shooting — lack identifying marks and are difficult to track.
“There’s no way to defend against the threat posed by this, short of the security provided to the president,” said Scott Sweetow, a retired ATF official, in an interview with NBC News. He warned that countless untraceable rifles still exist in private homes across the U.S., posing a significant security concern.
According to court documents, Robinson fled the scene after the shooting, abandoning the weapon wrapped in a towel in a wooded area near campus. It was recovered by police several hours later. Prosecutors say it’s unclear whether investigators would have been able to connect the gun to Robinson had his family not convinced him to turn himself in.
Text messages recovered by authorities show Robinson was aware of the weapon’s anonymity. “I’m worried what my old man would do if I don’t bring back grandpa’s rifle,” he allegedly texted his roommate after the shooting. “IDK if it has a serial number but it wouldn’t trace to me. I’m worried about prints.”
The Utah State Bureau of Investigations later confirmed that DNA matching Robinson was found on the rifle.
Despite the gravity of the crime — the killing of a father of two and rising conservative political figure — prosecutors say Robinson has shown little remorse. “I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can’t be negotiated out,” he allegedly wrote in another message.
Robinson is currently in custody and has refused to cooperate with investigators.
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