Prosecutors say newly released text messages undermine claims of bias in the high-profile Kirk shooting case, as defense attorneys seek to disqualify a Utah prosecutor ahead of a critical hearing. The dispute centers on whether a conflict of interest exists because a prosecutor’s child attended the event where Charlie Kirk was killed.
State prosecutors filed a 33-page response urging a judge to reject accused gunman Tyler Robinson’s motion to remove a deputy prosecutor. Robinson is charged with aggravated murder in the Sept. 10, 2025, shooting of Kirk at a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University. The filing argues the prosecutor’s 18-year-old child had no firsthand knowledge of the crime despite being present among thousands in the crowd.
According to prosecutors, the teenager never saw the shooting or the shooter and was blocked by buildings roughly 85 feet away. The filing includes text messages exchanged immediately after the incident, which prosecutors say show confusion rather than trauma or involvement. The teen first texted, “SOMEONE GOT SHOT,” followed by, “I’m okay, everyone is going inside.” Only later did messages state, “CHARLIE GOT SHOT,” with details based on what “people were saying.”
Prosecutors argue the messages reflect secondhand information and uncertainty, not a personal connection that would impair judgment. In a sworn affidavit, the teen said they were scared but required no counseling and quickly resumed normal activities.
Defense attorneys also criticized the state’s decision to seek the death penalty the same day charges were filed, claiming it showed bias. Prosecutors countered that the move followed Utah law, the strength of evidence, and the need to curb misinformation in a case that drew immediate national attention.
A judge will hear arguments on Jan. 16. If the defense prevails, the entire county attorney’s office could be removed, delaying proceedings in the Kirk shooting case.
