US authorities have formally charged Tyler James Robinson in connection with the killing of right-wing conservative activist Charlie Kirk last week, and he could face the death penalty by firing squad if convicted.

Utah District Attorney Jeff Gray described Kirk's death as an"American tragedy" and announced at a press conference that charges had been filed against the 22-year-old, including aggravated murder, discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, and obstruction of justice.

"Charlie Kirk was killed while exercising one of our most sacred and precious American rights, the foundation of our democratic republic: the free exchange of ideas in pursuit of truth, understanding, and a more perfect union," he added.

Gray called the killing"a crime against the state, the peace and enjoyment of the people of Utah, and all who visit us here," and detailed seven total charges against Robinson, including obstruction of justice, witness tampering, and committing a violent crime in the presence of children.

The two obstruction of justice charges, both felonies, relate to Robinson's alleged concealment of the gun used in the shooting and his disposal of the clothing he was wearing.

The two witness tampering charges also relate to instructions Robinson gave to his live-in boyfriend, a transgender man, instructing him to delete his text messages and remain silent if questioned by police.

Gray continued,"After this press conference, I will file a notice of intent to seek the death penalty. I do not take this decision lightly. It is a decision I made as the district attorney based solely on the evidence and circumstances of the crime."

It's worth noting that Robinson was arrested after a 33-hour manhunt, after his father handed him over to authorities in connection with the assassination of the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA.