Prosecutors Reveal Chilling Motive Allegedly Given by Suspect in Charlie Kirk Killing
The case surrounding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk took a darker turn this week after prosecutors disclosed the alleged reason the suspect gave for carrying out the fatal attack.
Utah District Attorney Jeff Gray confirmed on Tuesday that Tyler Robinson, 22, faces seven felony charges, including aggravated murder, for fatally shooting Kirk while he spoke at Utah Valley University on September 10.
The Charges
According to Gray, Robinson has been formally charged with:
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Aggravated murder
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Felony discharge of a firearm
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Obstruction of justice – moving a firearm
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Obstruction of justice – disposing of clothing
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Witness tampering – instructing a roommate to delete messages
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Witness tampering – telling a roommate to stay quiet
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Committing a violent crime in the presence of children
If convicted of aggravated murder, Robinson could face the death penalty, which prosecutors say they intend to pursue.
The Motive, According to Prosecutors
During Tuesday’s press conference, Gray addressed questions about motive, citing what Robinson allegedly told his parents after the shooting.
“When asked why he did it, Robinson explained, ‘There’s too much evil and the guy [Kirk] spreads too much hate,’” Gray said.
The district attorney added that investigators believe the statement was a genuine reflection of Robinson’s mindset and not an offhand remark.
The Roommate’s Role
Prosecutors revealed that Robinson’s roommate, who has been cooperating with authorities, received disturbing messages before and after the assassination.
Gray explained that Robinson sent a text message instructing the roommate: “Drop what you’re doing. Look under my keyboard.”
When the roommate checked, he allegedly found a note reading: “I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and I’m going to take it.”
The roommate initially dismissed the message, replying, “What? You’re joking.” But prosecutors say Robinson was serious and later reiterated that he killed Kirk because he had “enough of his hatred.”
The Arrest and Surrender
Robinson evaded law enforcement for 33 hours following the attack. His father, who recognized him in surveillance images released by the FBI, persuaded him to turn himself in with the help of a family friend who had previously served in law enforcement.
Gray acknowledged the father’s cooperation, noting that Robinson allegedly told his parents he was considering suicide before surrendering.
Federal and State Cooperation
The case has quickly escalated into a high-profile investigation, with federal and state agencies working together.
FBI Director Kash Patel has already disclosed forensic findings, including DNA evidence linking Robinson to items recovered at the scene — a screwdriver left on a rooftop and a towel wrapped around the murder weapon.
Patel also revealed that Robinson sent text messages to others before the attack, indicating he had a chance to “take out Charlie Kirk” and intended to follow through.
Political Repercussions
The killing has sparked an intense political debate across the country. Kirk, a 31-year-old commentator and founder of Turning Point USA, was widely known for his outspoken opposition to progressive policies, gender ideology, and left-wing activism.
Former President Donald Trump has publicly called for Robinson to face the death penalty, a position Gray acknowledged during the press conference.
“I talked to officials from both administrations,” Gray said, referring to both Trump and the White House, “but I was not pressured to make a decision. I understood their feelings on it because it was in the news, but we didn’t really discuss that.”
Reactions From Officials
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said over the weekend that Robinson has refused to cooperate with police since his arrest. However, his family and romantic partner have been assisting investigators.
Those close to Robinson have described him as “deeply indoctrinated with leftist ideology” in recent years.
Kash Patel confirmed this account, saying Robinson’s communications and interviews with family members demonstrate a pattern of political radicalization.
Kirk’s Legacy
The assassination of Charlie Kirk has left a deep mark on the conservative movement. Kirk, who co-founded Turning Point USA and served as its executive director, had recently launched the “American Comeback Tour,” a speaking series focused on conservative values, faith, and policy reform.
He was also a husband and father of two young children. His death has drawn tributes from conservative leaders nationwide, many of whom have described him as a rising figure within the movement.
Looking Ahead
The court proceedings are expected to be lengthy, given the severity of the charges and the potential for a death penalty case. Prosecutors have already signaled their intent to pursue the maximum penalty under Utah law.
Robinson is currently being held under “special watch” in a secure housing unit as officials monitor his mental health. The sheriff’s department has said this precaution is routine in cases involving serious charges, violent behavior, or possible self-harm.
As investigators continue to piece together the timeline, officials emphasize that the cooperation of Robinson’s family and partner has been instrumental.
Conclusion
With prosecutors now revealing the alleged motive behind the assassination, the Kirk case has moved into an even more disturbing chapter. From handwritten notes to text messages, investigators say Robinson made his intentions clear before the fatal attack.
The trial will determine his ultimate fate, but for now, prosecutors believe they have both the evidence and the testimony to pursue the harshest penalties available.
