Igwe Grace
A 23-year-old Utah man, Tyler Robinson, has pleaded not guilty to charges linked to the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk as the judge has ruled that prosecutors can seek death penalty if he is convicted.
Robinson pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to a murder charge and six other charges linked to the shooting of Kirk at Utah Valley University in Orem on September 10, 2025. The 31-year-old Charlie Kirk was speaking at a campus event when he was shot in the neck. Robinson denies the charges against him.
Prosecutors argued that the death penalty should remain an option because of serious circumstances surrounding the shooting. They alleged that Robinson fired into a crowd where children were present. Furthermore, they presented evidence they said linked him to the shooting, including DNA allegedly found on the rifle believed to have been used, video footage and statements he allegedly made to people close to him.
However, Robinson's lawyers challenged the evidence presented by the prosecution and argued against allowing the death penalty. They also questioned some of the procedures and expert evidence used in the case. Judge Tony Graf nevertheless ruled that prosecutors could seek the death penalty if Robinson is found guilty, although he has not been convicted or sentenced.
Robinson surrendered to the authorities the day after the shooting and remains involved in the ongoing court case. He is expected to return to court on October 23, when a trial date may be set. Kirk's widow, Erika, and his parents, Robert and Kathryn, were also present at Tuesday's hearing.
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