Tyler Robinson Charged with Aggravated Murder in Charlie Kirk's Death; Prosecutors Seek Death Penalty

Utah prosecutors have charged 22-year-old Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray announced the charges on Tuesday, stating his intention to seek the death penalty. Robinson also faces charges of felony discharge of a firearm, obstruction of justice, and witness tampering.

Robinson is accused of shooting Kirk from a rooftop using a bolt-action rifle during a speaking event at the university. DNA evidence reportedly links Robinson to the weapon used in the killing.

Investigators revealed that Robinson's family identified him from surveillance images released after the incident. His mother expressed concern to her husband that the suspect resembled their son, and his father agreed.

Robinson's mother informed investigators that over the past year, her son had become more political, leaning more to the left and becoming more pro-gay and trans-rights oriented. She also mentioned that he began dating his roommate, a biological male who was transitioning genders.

Text messages between Robinson and his roommate were presented as evidence, including one where Robinson allegedly instructed his roommate to look under his keyboard, where a note was found stating, "I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and I'm going to take it."

Robinson is scheduled to appear virtually for his initial court appearance at 5 p.m. ET. He has been held in jail without bail since his arrest on Friday morning.

Kirk's death has prompted bipartisan calls to end political violence. President Donald Trump condemned "radical left" rhetoric following the killing.