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Tyler Robinson, aged 22, was brought before the court via video from jail, sporting a shaved face and wearing a suicide prevention gown. He listened attentively as the judge read the charges, which included the possibility of the death penalty. Robinson spoke only once, confirming his name. Since he couldn’t afford a lawyer, Judge Tony Graf decided to appoint a public defender before the next hearing scheduled for September 29. Robinson remains detained without bond at Washington County Jail, where he is under heightened supervision.
Prosecutors announced on Tuesday their intent to seek the death penalty for Robinson, the man accused of shooting and killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, about 40 miles south of Salt Lake City. They also revealed new evidence, including text messages in which Robinson allegedly confessed to the shooting. In court documents, Robinson reportedly told his roommate and romantic partner, “I had enough of his hatred,” explaining his motive for the killing. The roommate, who is transitioning from male to female, discovered a note from Robinson stating, “I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I’m going to take it,” after Robinson instructed her to look under his keyboard.
Robinson later confirmed in a text that he was the shooter, apologizing for his actions. When questioned about his motive, he cited Kirk’s hatefulness and said, “Some hate can’t be negotiated out.” Prosecutors say Robinson planned the attack for over a week. He also expressed regret about not retrieving a rifle belonging to his grandfather that he left in a bush after the shooting, fearing his father’s reaction. DNA evidence on the trigger confirmed his involvement.
The day after the shooting, Robinson turned himself in following a confrontation with his parents, who had seen images of the gunman. He initially hinted at suicidal thoughts but agreed to meet with them at home and eventually decided to surrender after discussing with a family friend who is a retired deputy sheriff. Before relinquishing himself, Robinson asked his roommate to delete messages and avoid talking to authorities or the media.
Robinson’s mother reported that he had grown more liberal and supportive of gay and trans rights over the past year. His relationship with his roommate also led to discussions with family members, including his father, who holds opposing political views. Prosecutors added charges of targeting Kirk based on political motives and confirmed that children might have witnessed the shooting. Under Utah law, only aggravated murder can carry the death penalty.
Charlie Kirk, 31, a co-founder of the conservative student movement Turning Point USA and a close Trump ally, was shot during a speech attended by 3,000 people. Kirk has been criticized for his rhetoric toward marginalized groups and for endorsing unfounded claims about election theft in 2020. Supporters see him as a defender of conservative values and a unifying figure among young voters, especially within Gen Z. The incident has prompted harsh rhetoric from political leaders, with some blaming the “radical left” and others fearing it might incite further violence. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates that roughly 66% of Americans believe that political rhetoric contributes to violence.
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