Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray has formally charged 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson with aggravated murder in the shooting death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Gray described the killing as an attack on “one of our most sacred and cherished American rights the free exchange of ideas in pursuit of truth, understanding, and a more perfect union.”

He added that Kirk’s death was not only a crime against the state of Utah but also “a deeply personal loss,” noting that Kirk was “a husband, a father to two young children, a son, a brother, and a friend.” Gray extended condolences to Kirk’s wife, Erica, their children, and family.

Authorities allege Robinson opened fire on Kirk while he was addressing a large crowd at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Police recovered a bolt-action .30-06 rifle believed to be the murder weapon. A 33-hour manhunt ended with Robinson’s arrest on the evening of September 11.

Gray also expressed concern for those who attended Kirk’s Turning Point USA event at the university and for all impacted by the tragedy.

“As county attorney, I am charged with bringing justice to those who break our laws. I am charged with bringing justice for those who are harmed, and I am charged with bringing justice for Charlie Kirk. I am committed to this responsibility, and I take it seriously,” Gray said.

He then outlined the charges against Robinson:

Count One: Aggravated murder, a capital offense, for intentionally or knowingly causing the death of Charlie Kirk under circumstances that created a great risk of death to others.

Count Two: Felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, a first-degree felony.

Count Three: Obstruction of justice, a second-degree felony, for moving and concealing the rifle used in the shooting.

Count Four: Obstruction of justice, a second-degree felony, for disposing of the clothing worn during the shooting.

Count Five: Witness tampering, a third-degree felony, for directing his roommate to delete incriminating text messages.

Count Six: Witness tampering, a third-degree felony, for instructing his roommate to remain silent if questioned by police.

Count Seven: Commission of a violent offense in the presence of a child, a Class A misdemeanor, for committing homicide knowing children were present and may have seen or heard the murder, and for doing so based on Charlie Kirk’s political expression.

Gray said the state is further alleging aggravating factors for the first two counts, arguing Robinson targeted Kirk because of his political expression and acted with knowledge that children would witness the homicide.

Following the announcement, Gray confirmed he had filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty.

“I do not take this decision lightly. It is a decision I have made independently, based solely on the available evidence, the circumstances, and the nature of the crime,” he said.

Because prosecutors are seeking the death penalty, Robinson will remain held without bail in the Utah County Jail.