Memes and nihilistic in-jokes: the online world of Charlie Kirk’s alleged killer

The Guardian - TechnologyWednesday, September 17, 2025 at 11:00:33 AM
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Memes and nihilistic in-jokes: the online world of Charlie Kirk’s alleged killer
The tragic case of Tyler Robinson, who allegedly killed right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, highlights a disturbing trend where individuals engage with extreme digital communities before committing acts of violence. Robinson's chilling confession to his roommate reveals not only his admission of guilt but also his unsettling connection to online nihilistic in-jokes and memes. This incident raises critical questions about the influence of online environments on real-world actions and the growing normalization of violence among certain groups.
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