During the shocking shooting of political commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, chaos gripped the crowd. Viral footage quickly circulated online, showing an elderly man being restrained by police, pants around his ankles, shouting, “Shoot me!” Many initially assumed he was the shooter. Social media erupted with speculation, but it soon became clear the man was not responsible.
The individual was identified as 71-year-old George Zinn, a local activist known to authorities for past disruptive behavior at political events. Police records reveal that Zinn falsely claimed responsibility for the shooting, explaining he wanted to divert attention from the “real shooter” and even described himself as willing to be a “martyr.”
His actions temporarily slowed the investigation and diverted police resources, though Zinn insisted his confession was deliberate rather than mistaken. Attention quickly shifted to 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, who now faces multiple charges, including aggravated murder and obstruction of justice. Robinson was identified after his father recognized him in surveillance footage and persuaded him to surrender during a tense 33-hour manhunt.
Authorities report evidence linking Robinson to the crime scene, including DNA near the rooftop where the fatal shot was fired. Prosecutors have indicated they may pursue capital charges, and Robinson remains in custody under special watch pending a mental health evaluation. Meanwhile, Zinn faces charges for obstruction of justice, though he had no connection to Robinson or the attack. Known locally for his unusual antics and prior legal troubles, Zinn’s false confession highlights how quickly misinformation can spread during moments of national crisis, adding a bizarre twist to an already tragic story.
