On September 12, 2025, Utah Governor Spencer Cox announced that an unfired bullet casing found with the firearm used in the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk was inscribed with lyrics from an Italian anti-fascist song, “O bella ciao, bella ciao.” The casing was linked to Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old Utah resident, who was arrested for allegedly gunning down Kirk using a sniper shot. Other casings bore inscriptions such as “Hey fascist! Catch!”, “Notices bulge, OwO what’s this?” and “If you read this, you are gay, LMAO”.
What Is Bella Ciao?
Bella ciao is a popular Italian folk song with a sprawling history. Initially sung by Italian workers as a protest song in the 19th century, the song was co-opted as an anti-fascist anthem sung by the Nazi resistance during World War 2. It is sung annually on April 25 as part of Liberation Day, celebrating the end of Benito Mussolini’s fascist dictatorship and the Nazi occupation in Italy.
The song’s popularity has soared in recent years, owing to pop culture where it has been used in TV series as well as video games. The hit Netflix series, Money Heist, which debuted on the streaming platform in 2017 incorporated the song sung by American singer Becky G. Similarly, it was included in the first-person shooter game Far Cry 6.
The global left has also embraced the song, with the lyrics being sung at major protests. In May 2023, trade unionists in Italy sang it to taunt Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for her policies. The tune was also chanted at the European Parliament last year in response to a visit from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
Watch: Joe Rogan Stunned Mid-Podcast By Charlie Kirk’s Death, ‘It’s So Scary’
Who Is Tyler Robinson?
Kirk, the 30-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, was shot on campus, setting off a large manhunt that ended with Robinson’s capture. His father is believed to have turned him in to the police.
The Utah governor stated that Robinson has acted alone, although the investigation is ongoing. His arrest was first disclosed by US President Donald Trump who in an interview with Fox News said, “With a high degree of certainty, we have him”.
