Tyler Robinson’s defense team challenged prosecutors’ push for the death penalty, arguing the alleged shooter targeted only conservative activist Charlie Kirk and did not endanger other attendees at the Utah Valley University event.
Robinson Defense Challenges Death Penalty
On Tuesday, Robinson’s attorneys argued in court filings that prosecutors have not established an aggravating factor necessary to pursue capital punishment in Utah.
"The only evidence presented supports that the bullets traveled above, not through, the crowd," the lawyers wrote.
The defense says Robinson "hit the intended target" and argues there was no evidence he intended to harm anyone else at the event.
His lawyers also cited searches of communications between Robinson and his roommate, Lance Twiggs, saying there was "no mention of any threat or intended harm to any other individual(s)."
Robinson Political Motive Disputed
Prosecutors have argued Robinson created a "great risk of death" to others during the shooting, an aggravating factor that could make the case eligible for the death penalty.
The defense disputes that argument, saying the evidence shows Kirk was the only person in the line of fire.
Robinson’s attorneys also challenged prosecutors’ claim that Kirk was targeted because of his political views.
They argued an alleged reference to Kirk’s "hatred" does not establish that a political belief motivated the attack.
Robinson has not yet entered a plea. Utah District Judge Tony Graf is scheduled to hold a hearing Sept. 1, AP News reported.
Read Also: Utah Governor After Kirk Killing: 'Social Media Is A Cancer On Our Society Right Now'
Kirk Shooting and Past Death Fears
Last year, Kirk was shot and later died during an event at Utah Valley University, prompting bipartisan condemnation.
President Donald Trump called Kirk "legendary."
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Fa.) described the shooting as "detestable," adding, “This is not who we are.”
Robinson, 22, was later apprehended after reportedly confessing to a family member, while Utah Gov. Spencer Cox described the killing as politically motivated.
Previously, Kirk also expressed fears about being killed because of his political work.
Former colleague Candace Owens shared 2018 messages in which Kirk said he was unsure whether he would live to see his political movement’s future and compared himself to Moses. The messages resurfaced after his death.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo Courtesy: Sathyam_19 on Shutterstock.com
