Defendant charged with aggravated murder and seeking death penalty in Charlie Kirk case

A defendant has been charged with aggravated murder in connection with the death of Charlie Kirk, according to a recent announcement by the county attorney. The charges include seven counts, with the first being aggravated murder, classified as a capital offense for intentionally causing Kirk"s death under circumstances that posed a significant risk to others.

The second charge is for felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, a first-degree felony. The state is alleging aggravating factors for both counts one and two, stating that the defendant targeted Kirk based on his political expression and was aware that children were present during the incident.

Additionally, the defendant faces three counts of obstruction of justice, both classified as second-degree felonies. These charges stem from actions taken to conceal the rifle used in the shooting and disposing of the clothing worn during the incident. There are also two counts of witness tampering, classified as third-degree felonies, for directing a roommate to delete incriminating texts and to remain silent if questioned by police.

The final charge is for the commission of a violent offense in the presence of a child, a class A misdemeanor, which relates to the homicide committed with children potentially witnessing the act.

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Following a press conference, the county attorney announced an intent to seek the death penalty, emphasizing that this decision was made independently based on the evidence and the nature of the crime. The defendant will remain in custody without bail at the Utah County Jail.

For more on related coverage, see previous reports on the charges against Tyler Robinson.