Judge Rules Tyler Robinson Can Be Tried for Charlie Kirk Killing
A Utah judge found probable cause for all seven charges against Tyler Robinson, allowing the case to move to trial, while prosecutors say they will seek the death penalty.
A Utah judge on Tuesday ruled that there is sufficient probable cause for Tyler Robinson to stand trial on seven counts, including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, obstruction of justice, witness tampering and a violent offense committed in the presence of a child. Robinson, who is accused of shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk on a university campus last September, entered a not-guilty plea through his attorney after the ruling.
Prosecutors, led by Deputy Utah County Attorney Ryan McBride, said the evidence – video, clothing and DNA – shows Robinson fired a high-powered rifle into a crowd of thousands, creating a “great risk of death” for bystanders. The state indicated it will pursue the death penalty if Robinson is convicted.
The defense argued that the prosecution’s case relies on speculation and that there is no proof Robinson was motivated by Kirk’s political views. Attorneys for Robinson also challenged the witness-tampering charge, saying text messages to his roommate were taken out of context.
Kirk’s family released a statement calling the move to trial an “important step” toward justice, while both sides presented emotional testimony during the preliminary hearing. The case will now proceed to a full trial where the charges will be adjudicated.