Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old suspected of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, is being held under “Special Watch” in a Special Housing Unit as jail authorities evaluate his mental state.
Utah County Sheriff’s spokesperson, Sergeant Raymond Ormond, confirmed that Robinson is being closely monitored by staff and mental health professionals to determine whether he poses a danger to himself or others. The measures include 24-hour surveillance and checks roughly every 15 minutes. Officials said the unit offers stronger staffing and extensive security camera coverage to ensure both inmate and staff safety.
Law enforcement sources indicated earlier on Friday that Robinson had allegedly told his father he would rather die by suicide than surrender to police. Authorities have not disclosed whether Robinson has repeated such statements since being taken into custody.
Robinson was arrested Friday and booked on charges of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a weapon causing serious bodily injury, and obstruction of justice. He has not yet been formally charged.
Police allege Robinson shot Kirk in the neck during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday afternoon. Kirk, 31, was rushed to the hospital but later died of his injuries.
Video footage from the scene showed a man in a black T-shirt, cap, and sunglasses fleeing after the shooting. Authorities released the clips publicly and asked for help in identifying the suspect before Robinson’s arrest. According to the probable cause affidavit, Robinson had previously expressed dislike for Kirk to members of his family.
Kirk is survived by his wife, Erika, who spoke publicly for the first time on Friday following his death, and their two children.
