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State prosecutors on this week formally charged Tyler Robinson, the young adult accused of fatally shooting far-right activist Charlie Kirk, with first-degree homicide—and announced they will pursue the death penalty if he is convicted.

Charges and Aggravating Factors

The exact accusations brought include aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, and witness tampering. County Attorney Jeff Gray explained that aggravating circumstances included the deceased’s public statements and the attendance of children during the shooting.

“I do not take this decision lightly,” the prosecutor said. “And it is a decision was reached based solely on the available evidence.”

Case Findings and Alleged Intent

Authorities claim that Robinson ordered his roommate to erase incriminating digital communications and not speak to authorities. According to reports, Robinson’s mother told law enforcement that her son had become more political and had started shifting to the left, including support for LGBTQ+ rights.

Robinson was reportedly in a relationship with his roommate, who was transitioning genders.

Incident of the Shooting

Kirk was shot at an event at UVU moments following a remark about transgender individuals and gun violence. Video of the incident showed the shooting.

Apprehension and Evidence

Robinson was arrested the following day after acquaintances identified him from released images. He surrendered with the help of a family friend who was a law enforcement official.

Prior to his arrest, Robinson reportedly admitted to the killing in a message on Discord, stating: “Everyone, I have bad news, I was responsible on campus that day.”

Authorities also revealed that genetic material matching Robinson was found on a towel placed on the rifle thought to have been used in the attack. The weapon was abandoned near the university.

Communications and Engraved Bullets

Further evidence featured a text message from Robinson to his roommate that read: “I had the chance to eliminate Charlie Kirk, and I’m going to do it.”

Officials additionally discovered bullet casings with etched inscriptions such as internet memes, gaming references, and words from an anti-fascist song. A particular inscription read: “Hey fascist! CATCH!”

Court Process and Detention

The defendant will stay in jail without bail due to the prosecution’s plan to seek the death penalty. He was scheduled to appear in court for an initial appearance.

The prosecutor referred to the killing as “an American tragedy,” adding that Kirk was killed while exercising free speech.