Utah county prosecutor Jeffrey Gray has laid out startling details in the murder of rightwing activist Charlie Kirk, describing the case as an 'American tragedy'. During a 45-minute press conference, Gray revealed that suspect Tyler Robinson, 22, had confessed to the killing via text messages to his roommate, who was also his lover.
According to Gray, Robinson became consumed by hatred for Kirk and his politics, planning the murder in just over a week after learning Kirk would speak at Utah Valley University. The alleged assassin used a rifle belonging to his grandfather, later found wrapped in a towel in a field near the campus.
Gray read from a 10-page information document detailing text exchanges on 10 September, the day of the shooting. Robinson messaged his roommate: 'Drop what you are doing, look under my keyboard.' The roommate found a note stating, 'I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I’m going to take it.' When the roommate asked if he was joking, Robinson replied: 'I am, I’m sorry.'
In further texts, Robinson explained his motive: 'I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can’t be negotiated out.' The roommate, described as a 'biological male who was involved in a romantic relationship with Robinson', was urged to stay silent and hire a lawyer if police came calling.
Gray announced charges of aggravated murder and other offences, and said he would seek the death penalty. He emphasised that the decision was made independently, dismissing calls for vengeance from Donald Trump and allies. Robinson is due to make his first court appearance.
