Utah county prosecutor Jeffrey Gray has detailed the alleged motive and actions of Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old charged with the murder of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. In a press conference lasting 45 minutes, Gray described the killing as 'an American tragedy' and revealed damning text messages exchanged between Robinson and his roommate shortly after the shooting.
Gray said Robinson had become consumed by hatred for Kirk and his politics, planning the murder 'in a bit over a week' after learning Kirk would speak at Utah Valley University. A bolt-action rifle, believed to belong to Robinson's grandfather, was used in the killing and later found wrapped in a towel in nearby woodland. Three unspent rounds bore engravings including 'Hey Facist! Catch!' and 'O Bella ciao'.
Text messages from 10 September, read aloud by Gray, showed Robinson confessing to the crime and begging his roommate to stay silent. The roommate, described as a transitioning male in a romantic relationship with Robinson, initially responded with disbelief. In one exchange, Robinson stated, 'I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can't be negotiated out.'
Gray confirmed he is charging Robinson with aggravated murder and other offences, and will seek the death penalty. He stressed that the decision was made independently, dismissing external calls for retribution. Robinson's mother told investigators her son had become more politically left-leaning in the past year. Robinson is due to appear in court for the first time later on Tuesday.
