Utah man pleads not guilty as judge allows death penalty pursuit in Charlie Kirk murder case

A Utah court heard 23-year-old Tyler Robinson plead not guilty to aggravated murder and six additional counts related to the September 10, 2025 shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a campus event. The judge ruled that prosecutors may pursue the death penalty, citing aggravating factors such as firing into a crowd that included children.

Robinson, dressed in a grey suit, appeared in Provo with his attorneys. Kirk’s widow, Erika, their two children, and his parents were present. The family issued a statement saying the decision “marks an important step” in their pursuit of justice.

Prosecutor Ryan McBride presented what he described as “a mountain of evidence,” including DNA linking Robinson to a rifle and other items, recorded confessions to acquaintances, and a video statement from Robinson’s roommate and partner, Lance Twiggs. McBride asserted that the video showed Robinson “dressed to kill” on the day of the shooting.

The prosecution argued that Robinson’s motive stemmed from opposition to Kirk’s conservative views, particularly on transgender issues, and highlighted “aggravating” conduct, alleging he “gambling with the lives of others” by firing toward a crowd.

Robinson’s defense sought to limit the aggravating factors, noting that only Kirk was struck by bullets. The defense also objected to live streaming of the proceedings, but the judge upheld transparency after a sealed hearing.

The case follows a five-day preliminary hearing in July, during which prosecutors detailed evidence such as DNA on the rifle, a towel, a screwdriver, and matching engravings on shell casings. Twiggs testified that Robinson had confessed, expressed remorse, and said he wished he hadn’t acted.