The man accused of fatally shooting political commentator Charlie Kirk made his initial court appearance this week, seen by the public for the first time wearing a specialized garment designed to prevent self-harm.
Tyler Robinson, 22, appeared via video link from the Utah County Jail on Tuesday. He was formally presented with charges including aggravated murder and discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury in connection with the killing, which occurred last week during a campus event at Utah Valley University.
During the brief hearing, Robinson was clad in a dark green, one-piece gown fastened with Velcro. Jail officials confirmed the attire is a protective smock issued to inmates under suicide watch. The garment lacks traditional fasteners, waistbands, or any material that could be used as a ligature.
A spokesperson for the sheriff’s office clarified the outfit’s purpose, noting its design is solely to mitigate suicide risk and it is not protective equipment like a bulletproof vest.
Robinson showed little visible emotion during the proceeding, speaking briefly to the judge while seated before a plain wall. He is being held in a Special Housing Unit where he remains under observation by mental health professionals to assess any risk he may pose to himself.
Authorities have indicated that prior to his arrest, Robinson allegedly told a family member he would consider suicide rather than surrender to police. It is not publicly known if he has made any such threats while in custody.
Prosecutors announced at the hearing their intention to seek the death penalty in the case. The suspect is scheduled to return to court at a later date.
