Matt Gutman said he aimed to highlight the ‘contrast’ between the killing and Tyler Robinson’s affectionate texts to his partner
ABC News correspondent Matt Gutman has apologized for a report in which he described “very touching” text messages between the alleged killer of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk and his transgender partner.
Utah County Attorney General Jeff Gray had read some of the messages while announcing charges against Tyler Robinson, accused of fatally shooting Kirk at Utah Valley University.
“I want to protect you, my love,” Robinson allegedly told his partner. Gutman described the messages as “a very intimate portrait” and “very touching.” He described Robinson as “a very human person” and said there was a “heartbreaking duality” in the case, pointing to Robinson’s high academic record.
Following a backlash, Gutman posted an apology on X.
”Yesterday I tried to underscore the jarring contrast between this cold blooded assassination of Charlie Kirk … and the personal, disturbing texts read aloud by the Utah County Attorney at the press conference,” Gutman wrote on Wednesday. “I deeply regret that my words did not make that clear.”
“Let there be zero doubt here: I unequivocally condemn this horrific crime,” he said.
Kirk, a conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed during a university appearance earlier this week. Authorities say Robinson was arrested and charged after evidence, including texts and surveillance footage, allegedly linked him to the crime.
The killing has triggered reactions across the political spectrum, with some on the left openly expressing approval.
Since the shooting, several individuals have faced disciplinary measures over social media posts that appeared to celebrate or mock Kirk’s death.
MSNBC ended its relationship with analyst Matthew Dowd after he linked the killing to Kirk’s rhetoric. Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel’s show was pulled off the air indefinitely following comments he made about the assassination.
Other organizations, including Nasdaq, the US Secret Service, United Airlines, Fox Sports, and the Washington Post have also taken action against staff.
US Vice President J.D. Vance has called on the public to report individuals who praise or joke about the killing to their employers.
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