Tyler Robinson has pleaded not guilty to charges connected to the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a university event in Utah.
A man accused of k!lling an American conservative activist has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Tyler Robinson denied involvement in the death of Charlie Kirk, 31, who was shot in the neck at a university event in Utah on September 10, 2025.
A judge ruled that prosecutors can seek the death penalty if Robinson is convicted.
Prosecutors said the k!lling involved serious aggravating factors, including that Robinson allegedly fired into a crowd with children present.
Robinson’s lawyers opposed the death penalty, arguing the evidence does not meet legal requirements for some of the aggravating factors.
Kirk’s widow, Erika, and his parents attended the court hearing.
The family said allowing the death penalty to remain as an option was an important step toward justice.
Prosecutors say they have evidence linking Robinson to the k!lling.
They claim his DNA was found on a rifle believed to be the murder weapon, as well as on a towel and screwdriver.
Markings on the rifle matched marks on shell casings found after the shooting.
Investigators alleged Robinson planned the att@ck and had previously scouted the campus.
Prosecutors said he interacted with members of Kirk’s political organisation, ate at a restaurant, then returned wearing different clothes with the rifle hidden in his trousers.
Prosecutors also cited what they said was a confession from Robinson and a recorded statement from his roommate and romantic partner, Lance Twiggs.
Video footage showed Robinson on campus dressed as if preparing for the att@ck, they claimed.
Prosecutors suggested Robinson was motivated by opposition to Kirk’s conservative views, particularly on transgender issues.
Robinson’s lawyers have disputed the prosecution’s evidence and challenged the qualifications of some experts.
They argue the circumstances do not meet requirements for the death penalty.
Robinson turned himself in to authorities the day after Kirk d!ed.
The case will return to court on October 23 to discuss when the trial will begin.