A judge in the U.S. state of Utah has ruled that Tyler Robinson, accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, can stand trial on aggravated murder charges that carry the possibility of the death penalty, reports infohub.kz.
Judge Tony Graf issued the ruling after closing oral arguments on Tuesday. During the proceedings, attorneys primarily debated the aggravating factor that would make Robinson eligible for the death penalty if convicted.
"Viewing this evidence in the light most favorable to the prosecution, at this stage it is sufficient to reasonably infer that the defendant is the one who shot Charlie Kirk," Judge Graf said.
The judge also found that there was a reasonable and known threat of death to others at the time of the shooting, allowing prosecutors to seek an aggravated charge that carries the death penalty.
In a statement on behalf of Kirk's family, it was said that the judge's decision was an important step in their pursuit of justice. "Every step in this process carries the weight of everything Charlie's murder has taken from his family, especially his children, who will grow up without a father. We are grateful to everyone who has continued to pray for us, support us, and stand with us through a year of unimaginable grief," the statement said.
Recall that Charlie Kirk, a well-known American conservative blogger and supporter of Donald Trump, was shot dead on September 11, 2025, during a speech in Utah. The FBI reported the arrest of a suspect. On September 12, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson was detained on suspicion of murder.
On December 12, Robinson made his first court appearance. Among the evidence presented by the prosecution is a note found at Robinson's home in which he wrote: "I have a chance to take out Charlie Kirk, and I will do it." Additionally, it is reported that Robinson discussed the murder in a chat with friends, and his DNA was found on the weapon. Also, traces of his shoes were found on the roof from which the shot was fired.