Suspect in Charlie Kirk killing formally charged with murder

Utah prosecutors announced on Tuesday that Tyler James Robinson, 22, has been formally charged with the murder of prominent conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Kirk, a founder of the influential youth political group Turning Point USA and a close ally of President Donald Trump, was fatally shot last week during a speaking event on a university campus in Utah. Authorities said Robinson fired a single rifle shot to Kirk’s neck from a rooftop and was apprehended after a 33-hour manhunt.

"After reviewing the evidence that law enforcement has collected thus far, I am… charging Tyler James Robinson, age 22, with the following crimes," said Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray at a press conference. "Count one, aggravated murder, a capital offense, for intentionally or knowingly causing the death of Charlie Kirk under circumstances that created a great risk of death to others."

Robinson faces six additional charges, including obstruction of justice and witness tampering, reportedly for instructing his roommate to remain silent. Gray also announced a notice of intent to seek the death penalty.

"I do not take this decision lightly, and it is a decision I have made independently… based solely on the available evidence and the nature of the crime," he said.

Gray cited text message exchanges between Robinson and his roommate, describing the latter as "a biological male who was transitioning genders." The attorney noted that Robinson and the roommate were in a romantic relationship, and one exchange reportedly contained the roommate asking Robinson why he killed Kirk, to which Robinson allegedly replied, "I had enough of his hatred… Some hate can’t be negotiated out."

Robinson is being held without bail and is expected to appear in court via video link later Tuesday.

Charlie Kirk built a strong following on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, often sharing conservative viewpoints and critical commentary on the transgender rights movement. His content frequently included edited clips from debates and college events.

FBI Director Kash Patel faced criticism for the bureau’s initial response to the shooting, particularly for quickly naming and arresting a separate suspect who was released two hours later. Patel appeared before a Senate panel on Tuesday, encountering tense exchanges with Democratic Senator Cory Booker.

In the aftermath of Kirk’s death, the White House announced plans to investigate what it described as a "left-wing domestic terror movement," raising concerns that the effort could be used to suppress political dissent.