Tyler Robinson, accused of fatally shooting conservative activist and Trump aide Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University last week, made his first court appearance virtually from jail. During the hearing, he appeared unshaven and wore a suicide-prevention vest, remaining mostly expressionless and confirming only his identity.
Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty, presenting new evidence in the form of text messages sent to Robinson’s live-in partner, in which he allegedly admitted to shooting Kirk. The Utah County District Attorney’s office confirmed the decision to pursue capital punishment, citing the nature and circumstances of the crime. District Attorney Jeffrey Gray emphasized that the decision was based solely on the evidence and details of the incident.
According to court filings, Robinson allegedly planned the attack for over a week. He is accused of firing a single rifle shot from a rooftop, hitting Kirk in the neck. Text messages allegedly show Robinson instructing his partner to "look under my keyboard," where a note stated: "I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I'm going to take it." He reportedly wrote that he acted because he “had had enough of his hatred” and believed some hate “can't be negotiated out.”
Digital and physical evidence reportedly ties Robinson to the crime, including DNA linking him to the murder weapon. Prosecutors allege he attempted to cover his tracks by asking his partner to delete incriminating messages and dispose of evidence. Court documents also cite messages in which Robinson expressed concern about retrieving the rifle, which belonged to his grandfather.
Robinson faces seven counts, including aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and witness tampering. He remains in the Washington County Jail without bond, under a “special watch protocol” with heightened supervision.
The shooting, captured in viral videos, has sparked widespread condemnation of political violence and intensified partisan debates in the U.S., highlighting concerns that such incidents could provoke further unrest.
