Kirk Killing Defense: Shooter Hit Only Target, No Death Penalty

Lawyers for Tyler Robinson, the man charged with killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, are pushing back against the possibility of the death penalty, arguing that the shooter "hit the intended target" and did not endanger the thousands of attendees at the Utah event.

In documents filed late Tuesday, Robinson's attorneys contend that prosecutors have not shown that other people at Kirk's event at Utah Valley University on September 10 were placed in danger — a key aggravating factor under state law that could elevate the crime to a capital offense.

The defense also challenged the prosecution's assertion that Robinson was motivated by Kirk's political views. While prosecutors allege Robinson told a roommate he killed the activist because he "had enough of his hatred," the defense argues that this single statement is insufficient to prove motive, especially since searches of Robinson's apartment, computers, and phone turned up nothing else.

The filing is part of an effort to block the case from going to trial. Prosecutors have described their evidence as "overwhelming," including DNA tests linking Robinson to the suspected murder weapon and apparent confessions. During a previous hearing, the defense questioned the reliability of that evidence but offered no alternative explanation for the killing. The new filing makes no mention of the DNA evidence.

Robinson, who turned himself in a day after the killing, has not yet entered a plea. Closing arguments in the preliminary hearing are set for September 1, after which Judge Tony Graf will decide whether the case proceeds to trial and on what charges.