Suspect in Charlie Kirk killing is facing the death penalty
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Tyler Robinson (left) and his defense attorney, Staci Visser, appear in a Provo courtroom Tuesday. Photo: Francisco Kjolseth/Salt Lake Tribune/pool
A Utah judge ruled Tuesday that there is sufficient evidence for Tyler Robinson, the 23-year-old man accused of fatally shooting Charlie Kirk last year, to stand trial for aggravated murder, making him eligible for the death penalty.
Why it matters: Prosecutors say they will pursue the death penalty in a murder trial that could become one of the most closely watched in the U.S.
Catch up quick: Robinson is accused of killing Kirk at a Utah Valley University courtyard Sept. 10 of last year during the influential conservative activist's "American Comeback Tour."
- About 3,000 spectators witnessed the killing, and footage of it was heavily shared online.
- Robinson turned himself in to authorities a day after the shooting following a massive manhunt.
The latest: The ruling by Judge Tony Graf at the Fourth District Court in Provo came after weeklong proceedings in July where prosecutors unveiled evidence against Robinson.
- Kirk's widow, Erika, and his parents were in court Tuesday.
Robinson's legal team entered a not guilty plea to all counts on his behalf Tuesday.
- He is also charged with felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury; obstruction of justice; tampering with a witness; and committing a violent offense in the presence of a child.
What they're saying: Deputy Utah County attorney Ryan McBride said Robinson killed Kirk "because he disagreed with him."
- "He came on a mission to kill Charlie Kirk, and if he missed, so be it. He was prepared to take other shots and let the casualties be what they may," McBride argued.
Robinson's defense attorney, Staci Visser, said there's "zero evidence" that the alleged shooter took any action that was intended to harm other individuals.
- "The shooter did not fire any more shots, and in fact did not even reload," she said.
Zoom in: Evidence presented in July included video surveillance that prosecutors say captured Robinson's movements at UVU the day Kirk was killed.
- It also included a confession note and a video interview with Robinson's former romantic partner and roommate, Lance Twiggs, who said Robinson had expressed regret over the shooting.
- Prosecutors allege Robinson targeted Kirk for his political views, referencing a bullet engraving that said: "Hey Facist! CATCH!"
Editor's note: This is a breaking news story and has been updated with new information.