Tyler Robinson, the man accused of fatally shooting conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, made his first court appearance on Tuesday dressed in a green suicide prevention smock.
Robinson appeared virtually from the Utah County Jail, where he has been held since surrendering to police last week. He is currently housed in the jail’s Special Housing Unit under “special watch,” which allows mental health professionals to monitor whether he poses a danger to himself.
The outfit Robinson wore sparked attention during the hearing, with some mistaking it for a bulletproof vest. However, Utah County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Raymond Ormond explained it was an anti-ligature gown designed to prevent self-harm. The smock is made as a single piece with Velcro patches and contains no cords, waistbands, or ties that could be used in a suicide attempt.
Authorities said Robinson had previously told his father he would rather take his own life than surrender after the shooting. He later changed his mind and turned himself in to police.
On Tuesday, state prosecutors charged the 22-year-old with aggravated murder and six other felonies. Federal prosecutors are also reviewing the case and may bring additional charges.
Kirk, 31, was shot and killed last Wednesday during a student Q&A session at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Police say Robinson fired from a nearby building while Kirk was speaking on the topic of gun violence.
