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The assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk continues to ignite intense legal developments in Utah.
On Friday, Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old charged with aggravated murder in the Sept. 10, 2025, sniper shooting that killed Kirk during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University, appeared in court as his defense team pushed to disqualify the entire Utah County Attorney’s Office from the case.
Defense attorneys argue a conflict of interest exists because the adult child of one deputy county attorney was present at the event, positioned about 85 feet from Kirk.
According to court filings, law enforcement was deployed to ensure the child's safety during the chaos, and the child texted family members describing the moment: "While the second person in line was speaking with Charlie, I was looking around the crowd when I heard a loud sound, like a pop. Someone yelled, ‘he’s been shot.'"
The child later messaged a family group chat, exclaiming, "CHARLIE GOT SHOT."
Prosecutors countered that the child did not witness the shooting itself, experienced no lasting trauma beyond initial fear, and continued normal activities without interruption.
They dismissed the motion as meritless, stating there is "virtually no risk" of bias affecting the case.
The defense also contended that the prosecution's rapid decision to seek the death penalty reflects "strong emotional reactions" tied to the personal connection.
Prosecutors responded that the evidence and circumstances fully justify pursuing capital punishment, and any delay would have caused unnecessary pain to Kirk’s loved ones.
Defense attorney Richard Novak refuted claims that the motion was a delay tactic, insisting that until the court rules, the involved prosecutor should be removed.
Robinson, who has pleaded not guilty, faces additional charges including felony reckless discharge of a firearm causing bodily injury, multiple counts of obstruction of justice, witness tampering, and commission of a violent offense in the presence of a child.
He has not yet been arraigned; a preliminary hearing is set for May 18.
The hearing also revisited motions for Robinson to appear in civilian clothing without restraints and to ban video/audio broadcasting of proceedings to protect trial fairness.
Kirk’s widow, Erica, has advocated for full transparency, stating the public deserves cameras throughout the case.
This high-profile capital case stems from a brazen attack prosecutors describe as politically motivated, with evidence including DNA, a confession note, and the suspect's grandfather’s rifle.
