Legal expert reveals what Charlie Kirk's alleged shooter could be sentenced with amid first court appearance
A legal expert has revealed what Charlie Kirk’s alleged shooter could be sentenced with as his first court appearance is set to take place today.
Tyler Robinson is accused of shooting the political commentator in the neck during an appearance at Utah Valley University (UVU) last Wednesday (September 10).
Kirk was addressing a 3,000-strong crowd as part of his ‘American Comeback’ tour, where he had been asked by an audience member: “Do you know how many mass shooters there have been in America over the last ten years?”
Kirk replied: “Counting or not counting gang violence?”
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Immediately after, a gunshot could be heard. It was later confirmed that Kirk had died from his injuries sustained in the gunshot wound.
A manhunt was conducted by the FBI and 33 hours later, 22 year old Robinson was arrested under suspicion of murder.
For his initial appearance in court, Robinson is expected to appear virtually from Utah County Jail where he is currently being held.
According to a report by KSL 5 TV, Utah Country prosecutors have said that they are working on filing formal charges against Robinson for Kirk’s death.
Greg Skordas, who is a legal analyst for KSL, said: “I would anticipate an aggravated murder count and maybe a couple of lesser counts. But the county attorney doesn’t have to make the decision as to whether they’re going to pursue that at this time.”
The expert went on to share that Robinson ‘probably won’t be released’ on bail ahead of his trial, adding: “I’m certain that with a death penalty potential case that he’ll be held on no bail.”
It is thought that during the hearing, there will be a discussion on who will represent Robinson going forward and whether he will receive a court-appointed lawyer.
According to the governor of Utah, Spencer Cox, Robinson is not cooperating with authorities.
Cox said: “He is not cooperating, but all the people around him were cooperating, and I think that’s very important.”
Following Kirk’s death, President Donald Trump released a statement saying: “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!”
Kirk’s funeral is expected to take place on Sunday (September 21) at State Farm Stadium in Arizona, with the president confirming that he will be in attendance.