‘Depraved and inhumane way’: Kirk shooter could face same fate as 2010 execution where inmate’s arms snapped up twice before death

Warning: This article contains graphic details about execution and violence.

Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old suspect charged with killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, could face execution by firing squad in Utah if prosecutors secure the death penalty. President Donald Trump has made clear he wants Robinson executed for the September 10 shooting at Utah Valley University that claimed Kirk’s life during a campus speaking event.

Utah is one of 27 states that still allows capital punishment, giving condemned inmates sentenced before 2004 the choice between lethal injection and firing squad. For those sentenced after that date, lethal injection is the primary method unless the necessary drugs are unavailable. The state has executed only eight people since the U.S. Supreme Court reinstated capital punishment in 1976.

According to TMZ, Utah’s firing squad execution process involves five law enforcement volunteers positioned behind a wall with rifle slots, each aiming at a white paper target placed over the inmate’s heart. The condemned person is strapped to a chair with a hood over their head. During the 2010 execution of Ronnie Lee Gardner, witnesses reported that “Gardner’s arms snapped up twice as far as the restraint would allow” after being shot, though it remained unclear whether this was a pain reaction or muscle spasm. Utah County Attorney David Leavitt noted that seeking the death penalty requires proving the murder was carried out “in a depraved and inhumane way.”

Robinson faces multiple aggravated murder charges

Robinson was arrested after a 33-hour manhunt when his father recognized him from police photographs. He is being held without bail on charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, and obstruction of justice. Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray, who has the authority to seek the death penalty, is expected to file formal charges. The FBI says Robinson shot Kirk with a single round from a bolt-action rifle while the activist was speaking to a large crowd.

Authorities have pointed to anti-fascist messages engraved on bullet casings found near the scene as potential evidence of political motive. Robinson had developed what officials called an “obsession” with Kirk based on his digital footprint. Family members told investigators that Robinson had become more political in recent years and had discussed his dislike of Kirk’s viewpoints at a recent dinner.

The case will play out in Utah, where Trump’s recent political moves have included calls for expanded death penalty use. If convicted and sentenced to death, Robinson would join four other inmates currently on Utah’s death row. The state last executed someone in August 2024 when Taberon Honie died by lethal injection using pentobarbital.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox has expressed support for capital punishment in this case, calling Kirk’s killing a “political assassination.” The investigation continues as prosecutors prepare to present their case, with Robinson expected to make his first court appearance. Given the current political climate surrounding violence, this case highlights ongoing concerns about extremism and political violence in America.