Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, made his first in-person court appearance this week before a Utah County judge, marking a significant moment in the high-profile case.
During the December 11 hearing, Robinson appeared before Judge Tony Graf Jr. in civilian clothing, facing multiple serious charges, including aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, felony discharge of a firearm, witness tampering, and a misdemeanor count related to committing a violent offence in the presence of a child. Prosecutors have confirmed they will seek the death penalty if he is convicted.
According to a lip-reading analysis cited by the New York Post, Robinson was seen whispering remarks to his attorney before proceedings began. The analysis suggests he said, “I think about the shooting daily … every morning … all the time.”
He was also reported to have made a detached remark about the victim’s family, saying, “So, he had a wife…,” and commented on his mental state, stating he had been “smoking a lot … not sleeping at night … it’s driving me mental.”
The lip-reading was conducted by Nicola Hickling, a deaf forensic lip-reading expert with over two decades of experience. The findings, however, are interpretations of off-mic interactions and are not part of the official court record.
Robinson’s demeanour during the hearing drew attention, with reports noting moments where he appeared calm and at times smiled or smirked. He has been held without bail since his arrest in mid-September 2025, after surveillance footage from the shooting was released. His parents reportedly recognised him in the footage and persuaded him to surrender to authorities.
Prosecutors allege that Robinson intentionally or knowingly caused Kirk’s death during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University on September 10, in a manner that also endangered others present, including children. Additional charges include disposing of the weapon and clothing used in the attack and instructing a roommate to delete messages and avoid speaking to police.
The hearing primarily focused on media access to future proceedings. Judge Graf permitted limited camera access under strict conditions and issued a publicity order restricting lawyers from making extrajudicial statements.
He is also reviewing whether audio and transcripts from an earlier closed court session should be released, following demands from a coalition of media organisations.
Robinson is scheduled to return to court on December 29, with his next in-person appearance set for January 16.
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