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Tyler Robinson, 22, was formally charged on Tuesday (September 16) with multiple felonies, including aggravated murder, in connection with the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The other charges against Robinson also include felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, obstruction of justice, witness tampering, and committing a violent offense in the presence of a child.
Prosecutors in Utah are seeking the death penalty for Robinson, who is accused of shooting Kirk and is being held without bail. Robinson turned himself in last week and reportedly confessed to the crime, citing Kirk's "hateful" rhetoric as his motive.
“The murder of Charlie Kirk is an American tragedy,” Jeff Gray, the Utah County attorney, said at an afternoon news conference. “Charlie Kirk was murdered while engaging in one of our most sacred and cherished American rights, the bedrock of our democratic republic, the free exchange of ideas and a search for truth, understanding and a more perfect union.”
“It is also an offense against the state and to the peace and enjoyment of the people of Utah and of all those who visit here,” he continued.
Earlier in the day, FBI Director Kash Patel testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee about the case, stating that authorities are investigating all individuals involved in private Discord chats where Robinson allegedly discussed the shooting. Patel's handling of the investigation has been both praised and criticized, with some senators calling for a deeper look into potential funding networks behind recent political violence.