Court documents released Tuesday shed new light on the alleged planning behind the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Prosecutors say the suspect, 23-year-old Tyler Robinson, exchanged a series of text messages with his roommate on the day of the shooting that pointed to his motive, mindset, and preparation.
According to the filings from Utah County officials, Robinson’s roommate—described in the documents as “a biological male involved in a romantic relationship with Robinson”—alerted police to the existence of a handwritten note. That note, discovered beneath a keyboard, read: “I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I’m going to take it.” Investigators say they later recovered a photograph of the note in Robinson’s possession.
Prosecutors allege Robinson informed his roommate about the note through text, which prompted a conversation that has since been handed over to authorities. The messages, transcribed in court records, detail Robinson’s references to his rifle and his apparent determination to carry out the attack. Officials argue the exchange demonstrates clear premeditation.
The texts are among the strongest pieces of evidence prosecutors have presented so far in their case against Robinson. They not only point to planning but also suggest Robinson felt compelled to leave behind an explanation of his actions. The combination of the written note and digital correspondence, investigators say, outlines both intent and motive.
Robinson, who was arrested shortly after Kirk’s killing, has been charged with aggravated murder and several related offenses. Prosecutors announced this week they intend to pursue the death penalty, citing what they describe as the “calculated and deliberate” nature of the crime. Court proceedings are ongoing, and Robinson has not entered a formal plea.
The disclosures also add to the broader picture of Robinson’s relationship with his roommate. Prosecutors argue the romantic involvement may have given the roommate unique access to Robinson’s state of mind, ultimately enabling investigators to build a stronger case. The roommate’s cooperation has been central to piecing together Robinson’s alleged timeline leading up to the shooting.
Kirk’s killing has already been described by Utah Governor Spencer Cox as a “watershed moment” in the national conversation on political violence. The assassination has prompted widespread condemnation from across the political spectrum and renewed concerns about escalating threats against public figures.
As the investigation continues, questions remain about Robinson’s background, his precise motivations, and whether others had knowledge of his intentions. For now, prosecutors are relying heavily on the roommate’s testimony, the incriminating note, and the text exchanges—evidence they say reveals not only intent, but chilling certainty in carrying out one of the most consequential political killings in recent U.S. history.
