Suspect in Charlie Kirk Case Appears in Court for the First Time

Tyler Robinson, accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, made his first in-person court appearance on Thursday, while his lawyers requested limits on media access to help ensure a fair trial.

Robinson, 22, dressed in a shirt and tie, sat alongside his attorneys in a courtroom in Provo, Utah, approximately four miles (6 km) from the site where Kirk, 31, was shot and killed on September 10. His father, mother, and brother were also present, his attorney said.

Shortly after the proceedings began, District Court Judge Tony Graf moved part of the hearing into a closed session. The public, including Robinson’s relatives, was asked to leave temporarily, and a video feed was turned off. During this session, the judge and attorneys discussed which information from previous closed sessions could be made public. Graf, who is considering a request from Robinson’s lawyers to ban cameras from the courtroom, said he would issue a decision on media access later.

Robinson is accused of firing a single shot from a rooftop that killed Kirk during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University in Orem, about 40 miles (65 km) south of Salt Lake City. The incident occurred while Kirk was engaged in a debate with students. His death prompted widespread condemnation of political violence.

Since Robinson’s first court appearance via video on October 27, Judge Graf has taken steps to protect his presumption of innocence in a case he described as drawing “extraordinary” public attention. Graf allowed Robinson to appear in regular clothing but required physical restraints and barred media from photographing or filming him in shackles, citing concerns that such images could prejudice jurors. One videographer and one photographer have been authorized to share courtroom images and audio with other outlets.

Erika Kirk, widow of Charlie Kirk and now head of the Turning Point organisation, has requested that cameras be permitted in the courtroom to maintain transparency.

Robinson faces seven criminal charges, including aggravated murder, obstruction of justice for disposing of evidence, and witness tampering for allegedly asking his roommate to delete incriminating texts. Prosecutors have indicated they may seek the death penalty.