(NewsNation) — The man accused of shooting and killing Charlie Kirk is expected to be federally charged as early as Monday, according to a Department of Justice source.
Fox News first reported that the DOJ was seeking federal charges. NewsNation’s source with knowledge of the situation confirmed the department was seeking federal charges on Monday.
Tyler Robinson, 22, is accused of fatally shooting the Turning Point USA Co-founder last Wednesday during Kirk’s speaking event at Utah Valley University. Robinson was not a student at the school.
2 arrested after explosive device found under news van in Utah
His family turned him in to law enforcement and he is currently in custody without bail.
The family of Robinson told law enforcement that the man had become “more political” and had a recent conversation about whether Kirk was spreading hateful rhetoric.
Tyler Robinson could face the death penalty
Robinson was arrested on suspicion of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily harm, and obstruction of justice, according to court documents.
In Utah, the death penalty is legal. If convicted of an aggravated murder charge, Robinson could face a death sentence or 25 years to life in prison without parole.
The Utah County Attorney will hold a news conference on Tuesday afternoon to announce state charges against Robinson.
A DOJ spokesperson declined to comment when NewsNation reached out.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
