A 23-year-old Utah man accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk has pleaded not guilty to aggravated murder and six other charges as prosecutors received approval to pursue the death penalty if he is convicted.
Tyler Robinson is accused of shooting Kirk during a campus event at Utah Valley University in Orem on September 10, 2025. Kirk, 31, was speaking at the event when he was shot in the neck.
Robinson’s defence team had asked the court to remove the death penalty from consideration. Prosecutors opposed the request, arguing that circumstances surrounding the alleged shooting met the requirements for a capital case, including the fact that the gunfire was directed into a crowd where children were present.
Following the ruling, Kirk’s family welcomed the decision, describing it as an important development in their pursuit of justice. The family also highlighted the lasting impact of Kirk’s death on his children, who will grow up without their father.
The prosecution presented evidence during a five-day preliminary hearing in July in an effort to establish sufficient grounds for the case to proceed to trial.
Prosecutors allege that DNA evidence connects Robinson to the firearm and other items recovered in connection with the shooting. They also referred to alleged statements Robinson made to people close to him, as well as a recorded statement from his roommate and romantic partner, Lance Twiggs.
Prosecutor Ryan McBride told the court that investigators had multiple pieces of evidence pointing to Robinson as the alleged shooter, including surveillance footage, DNA evidence, alleged admissions and other circumstances surrounding the killing.
The prosecution has further alleged that Robinson’s opposition to Kirk’s conservative views, particularly his position on transgender issues, may have provided a motive for the attack.
Robinson, a former apprentice electrician, denies the allegations. The case will now proceed through the court process, with prosecutors retaining the option of seeking the death penalty if he is ultimately convicted of the capital murder charge.
