Tyler Robinson has been formally charged with aggravated murder in the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, prosecutors have just announced.
22-year-old Robinson, of Washington, Utah, faces charges of aggravated murder, weapons violations, and obstruction of justice.
Prosecutors said they will pursue the death penalty.
Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA and a close ally of President Donald Trump, was gunned down last Wednesday at Utah Valley University.
He was publicly assassinated in front of an audience of hundreds during his “American Comeback Tour.”
He died after being struck in the neck by a bullet while speaking to a crowd of more than 3,000.
Prosecutors Cite Political Targeting
Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray said Robinson’s alleged actions were “politically motivated” and intended to send a message.
“Aggravating factors in this case include that the defendant is believed to have targeted him [Kirk] based on his political expression and did so knowing children were present and would witness the homicide,” Gray said.
Authorities allege Robinson instructed his roommate to delete “incriminating texts” about the shooting and to remain silent if questioned by police.
Chaos And Fallout
Witnesses described a scene of horror as audience members scrambled for safety after the gunfire erupted, sparking an FBI-led manhunt.
Robinson was arrested hours later and has been held without bail since his capture.
Law enforcement searched Robinson’s family home in Washington, Utah, roughly 240 miles southwest of the campus.
Investigators also spoke with relatives as part of the investigation.
Robinson could face capital punishment for the assassination of Kirk.
Utah is one of only five states in the nation that still authorizes the death penalty to be carried out by firing squad.
Prosecutors said they will file capital murder charges in court, which could ultimately allow Robinson to face the death penalty if convicted.
The top charge against him, aggravated murder, is among the most serious offenses under Utah law.
Robinson has also been revealed to be a radical leftist who was in a romantic relationship with a man identifying as transgender.
He was detained the day after the shooting, following a confrontation with his father.
Robinson’s father recognized his son from photos and footage released to the public by law enforcement.
When his father confronted him, Robinson allegedly responded that he would rather commit suicide than turn himself in.
Family members also told investigators that in the days leading up to the assassination, Robinson expressed open disdain for Kirk and his views.
The killing of Kirk, one of the nation’s most visible young conservative leaders, has reignited debate over political rhetoric and violence just over a year after an assassination attempt on President Trump.
This is a developing story and will be updated as new details emerge.
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