Utah prosecutors are requesting that a judge proceed with all charges against Tyler Robinson in the murder case of Charlie Kirk, asserting that the evidence against him is substantial. In a filing submitted on Tuesday, prosecutors responded to a defense motion seeking to dismiss the aggravating factor that could lead to the death penalty. The defense contends that prosecutors have not demonstrated that the shooting posed a significant risk of death to anyone other than Kirk.
Prosecutors argue that Robinson fired a high-powered rifle into a crowd, endangering several individuals near Kirk. They countered the defense's claim that the bullet traveled above the crowd, stating that those close to Kirk remained within a dangerous zone. Prosecutors emphasized that the evidence establishes probable cause that Robinson knowingly created a risk of death to others, asserting that it is sufficient to support a conviction beyond a reasonable doubt.
The prosecution also addressed the defense's broader challenge to the evidence presented during the preliminary hearing, stating that the defendant does not dispute the evidence indicating he was the individual who fired the fatal shot, concealed the rifle, and instructed his roommate to delete texts related to the incident. Additionally, prosecutors accused Robinson's attorneys of failing to disclose relevant case law that had been rejected by the Utah Supreme Court.
The filing also defends a witness-tampering charge involving Robinson's roommate and an allegation of committing a violent offense in the presence of a child. Furthermore, prosecutors noted that evidence suggests Kirk may have been targeted due to his political views, citing a cartridge engraved with the phrase "Hey fascist, catch." Robinson, 23, is accused of fatally shooting Kirk, 31, during an event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. A hearing is scheduled for September 1, when Judge Tony Graf will determine if there is sufficient probable cause to proceed to trial.