PROVO, UT – Prosecutors in Utah have formally announced they will pursue the death penalty against Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old charged with the aggravated murder of conservative commentator and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.
The shooting occurred on September 10, 2025, during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University. Robinson was apprehended at the scene.
According to court documents, investigators have authenticated text messages Robinson sent to his roommate. In the messages, Robinson confessed to the shooting and stated his actions were motivated by a hatred for Kirk’s political views. The documents note that Robinson had recently adopted left-leaning political positions, specifically expressing strong support for gay and transgender rights.
The case has ignited a firestorm on social media and drawn intense media scrutiny. Much of the debate has centered on Robinson’s ideology and how it is being portrayed, with some critics accusing certain media outlets of mischaracterizing his motives or sympathetically framing his communications.
The news of the death penalty decision was met with strong reactions online. Political commentator Scott Jennings posted on X, “Last night, I was scolded for being ‘angry.’ You’re damn right I’m angry.”
As the legal process moves forward, plans are underway for Kirk’s memorial service this weekend. His widow has publicly vowed to continue his work.
