A Utah judge has ruled that Tyler Robinson, accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, will face trial. The decision was made following prosecutors’ presentation of substantial evidence supporting all seven charges against Robinson.
Robinson has entered a not guilty plea to all charges brought against him. Judge Tony Graf has allowed the death penalty to remain an option in the case, citing probable cause for the victim-targeting allegation.
“This evidence supports a reasonable belief that the defendant is the individual who shot and killed Charlie Kirk,” Judge Graf stated.
The charges include aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious injury, two counts of obstruction of justice, two counts of witness tampering, and committing a violent offense in the presence of a child. The aggravated murder and firearm charges are first-degree felonies, while the obstruction charges are second-degree felonies, and witness tampering charges are third-degree felonies. The final charge involves committing violence in the presence of a child, categorized as a Class A misdemeanor.
The court immediately proceeded to Robinson’s arraignment where his defense team waived a formal reading of the charges. His attorney entered not guilty pleas on his behalf.
The decision was followed by another heated debate regarding media presence in the courtroom. Despite objections from Robinson’s attorneys concerning publicity, Judge Graf allowed cameras, respecting existing decorum orders.
Charlie Kirk, who founded Turning Point USA, was shot on September 10, 2025, during an event at Utah Valley University. Prosecutors allege Robinson fired from an elevated position, leading to Kirk’s death.
Jeff Neiman, attorney for Kirk’s family, urged the court to progress swiftly towards trial, emphasizing the family’s desire for a timely resolution. “Charlie devoted his life to fostering a community rooted in faith and freedom,” Neiman reminded the court.
“Firing a bullet into a crowd and assassinating him—that is hate,” Neiman added, reinforcing the family’s stance.
Neiman implored Judge Graf to avoid unnecessary delays, stressing the family’s wish for a swift trial date, expected during the next court appearance on October 23.
Kirk’s family appreciates the decision to move forward, noting the significance of this “important step” in their ongoing pursuit of justice. They highlighted the personal impact on Kirk’s children, who will “grow up without their father.”
Fox News’ Lee Ross provided input, with additional reporting by Stepheny Price, who covers major crime stories and news across the United States.