A man accused of fatally shooting a political commentator during a campus event made his initial court appearance this week, clad in a specialized garment designed to prevent self-harm.
Tyler Robinson, 22, appeared via video link from the Utah County Jail on Tuesday to face formal charges, including aggravated murder, in the death of Charlie Kirk. The 31-year-old commentator was killed by a gunshot to the neck last week while participating in a debate on gun violence at Utah Valley University.
During the brief hearing, Robinson was seen wearing 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 for inmate safety and not protective equipment like a vest. Robinson has been held in a Special Housing Unit since his arrest and remains under close observation by mental health staff.
Authorities have indicated that prior to his arrest, Robinson made statements about preferring suicide to turning himself in. During the court proceeding, the defendant showed little visible emotion, speaking calmly to the judge from a sparse room.
Prosecutors have formally filed charges and announced their intention to seek the death penalty. The suspect is scheduled to return to court at a later date.
