The mother of the man accused of assassinating conservative commentator Charlie Kirk has stated in court filings that her son underwent a significant personal transformation in the year leading up to the shooting.
According to the documents, Tyler Robinson, who had earned a college scholarship, began adopting more progressive political views, which his mother described as a sharp turn to the left. She noted this shift included support for LGBTQ+ rights and led to frequent arguments with his father, who held opposing beliefs.
Prosecutors allege that political animosity was a primary motive for the attack. The mother recounted that Robinson had dismissed a planned campus event featuring Kirk as “stupid,” asserting that the commentator “spreads too much hate.”
Further details from the prosecution indicate that Robinson’s father, a former law enforcement officer, identified his son in a surveillance image released after the shooting. Upon confrontation, Robinson allegedly implied he was responsible for the attack, stating he “couldn’t go to jail” and wanted to “end it.” He reportedly reiterated his claim that Kirk propagated excessive hatred.
Robinson now faces a series of charges, including aggravated murder. Prosecutors have announced their intent to seek the death penalty. Additional charges include obstruction of justice, for allegedly hiding the weapon and discarding clothing, and witness tampering. He is also charged with committing a violent act in the presence of a child.
The incident occurred on September 10th at Utah Valley University, where Kirk was hosting an outdoor forum. During a discussion on transgender issues, a single gunshot struck Kirk in the neck. He was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at a hospital.
Following the shooting, Robinson was taken into custody after his father contacted authorities. In public remarks, former President Donald Trump expressed confidence in the arrest, praised the individual who turned the suspect in, and stated he hoped the accused would be found guilty and receive the death penalty.
