Tyler Robinson pleads not guilty in Charlie Kirk killing; Utah judge allows death penalty

September 2, 2026 at 12:00 PM2 min

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Tyler Robinson, 23, pleaded not guilty Tuesday in Provo, Utah, to seven charges including aggravated murder in the September 10, 2025, shooting death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Judge Tony Graf ruled prosecutors may seek the death penalty if Robinson is convicted. Kirk's widow Erika and parents Robert and Catherine attended the hearing.

Key Facts

Tyler Robinson, 23, pleaded not guilty to seven charges, including aggravated murder, in the September 10, 2025, shooting death of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University in Orem.
Judge Tony Graf ruled that prosecutors may seek the death penalty against Robinson if he is convicted.
Kirk, 31, co-founder of Turning Point USA, died from a gunshot wound to the neck during a public event at Utah Valley University.
Prosecutors cited that the shooting was directed at a crowd that included children as a factor supporting the death penalty.
Kirk's widow Erika, who is raising two children, and his parents Robert and Catherine attended the hearing in Provo.

Arraignment and Plea

Tyler Robinson appeared in court in Provo, Utah, on Tuesday wearing a gray suit and periodically consulting with his attorneys. He pleaded not guilty to all seven charges against him, including aggravated murder. The defense argued that the death penalty should be excluded from possible punishments. Prosecutors opposed that request, pointing to circumstances of the crime they said warrant the highest penalty.

Death Penalty Ruling

Judge Tony Graf agreed with prosecutors that Robinson's alleged actions could be considered aggravated murder. Aggravated murder in Utah is punishable by death. Prosecutors noted that the shooting was directed at a crowd that included children. The ruling allows the prosecution to seek the death penalty if Robinson is convicted.

Victim and Family

Charlie Kirk, 31, was a co-founder of Turning Point USA and a prominent figure in the American conservative movement. He was fatally shot in the neck while speaking to students and event participants at Utah Valley University in Orem on September 10, 2025. Kirk's widow Erika, who is raising two children, and his parents Robert and Catherine attended the hearing. After the hearing, the family issued a statement calling the court's decision an important step in the case and said they will continue to seek justice.