Officials on Tuesday announced formal charges against Tyler Robinson, accused in the assassination of conservative speaker Charlie Kirk.
Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray said Robinson faces multiple counts, including aggravated murder. “The murder of Charlie Kirk is an American tragedy,” Gray said. “As county attorney, I am charged with bringing justice to those who offend our laws.”
Along with aggravated murder, a capital offense that carries the death penalty in Utah, Gray announced charges of two counts of obstruction of justice for allegedly hiding the rifle and discarding clothing, two counts of witness tampering for directing a roommate to delete texts and remain silent, and one count of committing a violent offense in the presence of children.
Gray filed a notice of intent to pursue the death penalty, meaning the defendant will remain in jail without bail. “I do not take this decision lightly, and it is a decision I have made independently as county attorney, based solely on the available evidence and circumstances and nature of the crime,” Gray said.
Gray stated that Robinson is also believed to have targeted Kirk due to his political expressions. He also presented the evidence against Robinson, outlining his actions following the shooting, such as discarding clothing, hiding the weapon, and urging his roommate to delete incriminating texts.
Authorities say Robinson fired a single rifle shot from a rooftop at Utah Valley University in Orem last Wednesday, striking Kirk in the neck as he addressed a crowd of about 3,000. Kirk was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he died later that day.
Robinson, a third-year electrical apprentice at a Utah technical college, fled in the aftermath of the shooting. Investigators linked him to the attack through surveillance footage, digital evidence from his social media, and information provided by his family. Prosecutors say DNA also tied him to the rifle and ammunition.
Gray pointed to ideological motives, citing Robinson’s writings and statements, as well as accounts from his family. Robinson had accused Kirk of spreading hate and left a note declaring his intent to kill him.
