Tyler Robinson, accused of killing Charlie Kirk, appeared virtually in court on Monday, with his three newly appointed attorneys present in the courtroom.
Robinson faces multiple charges, including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, violent offense in the presence of a child, and two counts each of obstruction of justice and witness tampering. He did not appear in person, was not visible on camera, and remained silent throughout the hearing on Sept. 29.
Leading Robinson’s defense is Kathryn Nester, who spoke during the proceedings and requested a preliminary hearing once the defense has had sufficient time to review the discovery evidence.
Also on Robinson’s legal team are California attorneys Michael Burt and Richard Novak, both granted “pro hac vice” status to participate in the Utah case.
Robinson is expected to appear in person at his next scheduled court date on Oct. 30.
Prosecutors have indicated they will seek the death penalty, alleging Robinson fired a high-powered rifle, killing Kirk while the right-wing activist spoke at a rally at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10.
This marked Robinson’s second court appearance since his arrest. At his first hearing, he appeared virtually while wearing a suicide-prevention vest. During that session, Judge Tony Graf read the charges, which claim Robinson “intentionally selected” Kirk due to his “belief or perception regarding Charlie Kirk’s political expression.”
Robinson was arrested after family members recognized him in surveillance images released following the shooting and persuaded him to turn himself in, according to Utah Gov. Spencer Cox.
A previously released charging document alleges that Robinson’s roommate and romantic partner — who authorities say is transitioning from male to female — received messages from Robinson detailing aspects of the shooting. Robinson allegedly admitted he had planned the attack for “a bit over a week” and that he had “had enough of his hatred.”
