PROVO, Utah — Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old accused of fatally shooting Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk during a campus speech earlier this month, finally has a defense attorney. The attack occurred during Kirk’s visit to Utah Valley University, where he was addressing a large audience. According to court documents, Robinson was an electrician apprentice who had recently drifted apart from his family and became more politically active, particularly supporting pro-LGBTQ+ and transgender rights. His alleged confession, sent to his roommate and transgender romantic partner, expressed his frustration with Kirk’s public stance.
Kathryn Nester, a former federal public defender with over 30 years of experience, is spearheading the defense, according to a Utah County spokesperson. The attorney was approved by the Utah County Commission following the court’s determination that Robinson could not afford private legal representation. This process ensures that individuals accused of a crime who cannot afford legal counsel are provided with a qualified defense. Nester has previously defended Kouri Richins, a mother accused of poisoning her husband in 2022, who later wrote a children’s book about grief.
Kirk, a 31-year-old father of two, was addressing a crowd at Utah Valley University during a national speaking tour when a sniper’s bullet struck him in the neck in the campus courtyard. The incident has raised questions about campus security and the safety of public figures. The suspect, now in a special housing unit, remains under investigation, and his defense team will face the challenge of preparing for a case that could result in the death penalty. Additionally, Robinson may face federal charges in separate proceedings.