UPD
Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old Utah resident accused of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk earlier this year, appeared in Provo on Thursday, marking his first in-court appearance since his arrest in September.
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Robinson, charged with aggravated murder and several related felony counts in connection with the September 10 killing at Utah Valley University, was brought into the courtroom under heavy security and appeared restrained at the waist, wrists, and ankles. Prosecutors have said they plan to seek the death penalty if Robinson is convicted.
Unlike earlier hearings, which were conducted remotely by video or audio feed from jail, Thursday's session marked Robinson's first physical presence before a judge in Fourth District Court.
@tmzTyler Robinson -- the 22-year-old man who prosecutors say murdered Charlie Kirk -- made his first in-person court appearance Thursday. FULL STORY AT THE LINK IN BIO! 🎥: KSL News Utah
♬ original sound - TMZ - TMZ
Thursday's hearing was a legal battle over media access and how much of the proceedings should be public. Robinson's attorneys argued vigorously that extensive media coverage could jeopardize his right to a fair trial, given the intense national attention the case has drawn.
Robinson's attorney, Staci Visser, stated that, "We don't want the chaos that is out in the media in this courtroom."
Robinson's lawyers contend that the high profile of the case, inflamed by commentary from national figures, risks prejudicing potential jurors and infringing on Robinson's presumption of innocence. A coalition of media organizations has pushed back, advocating for open access to recordings and transcripts, arguing that transparency is necessary in proceedings of this public significance.
Judge Tony Graf, presiding over the case, temporarily halted a livestream early in the session so that cameras could be repositioned to comply with courtroom decorum and avoid broadcasting Robinson in restraints.
Judge Graf is expected to issue a ruling on the scope of media access by December 29. In the meantime, portions of pretrial proceedings remain closed to the press, and the court has designated specific photographers and videographers to provide controlled coverage to other news outlets.
Video and reporting from inside the courtroom captured Robinson in a dress shirt and striped tie, appearing relatively calm and at times interacting with his defense team. His parents and brother were present, and local reporters noted his mother became emotional as he entered.
Robinson is accused of firing a single shot from a rooftop that struck Kirk during a Turning Point USA event on the Utah Valley University campus in Orem. Kirk, 31, was a frequent commentator and organization founder whose death sparked widespread political reactions.
According to prosecutors, Robinson left a note before the shooting and later sent text messages to his partner admitting he had planned the attack. DNA evidence from the rifle trigger has also been cited by authorities. Though many popular figures have questioned the official narrative around the murder
Following the shooting, Robinson was identified to law enforcement by his own family after images were released and surrendered to authorities the next day. He has been held without bail at the Utah County Jail, and prior hearings have been limited to remote participation.
The court has scheduled additional appearances, including a preliminary hearing slated for May 2026, and several procedural dates in early 2026. Robinson has not yet entered a plea.
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Tags: Charlie Kirk, Murder, Suspect, Candace Owens, Israel, Trump, Conservative, Utah, Shooting, Court