Kirk, 31, known for his hardline rhetoric and polarizing presence in American politics, was shot and killed in front of a live audience during a student event that was also being livestreamed. The brazen act of violence, captured in real time, sent shockwaves across the country and has quickly become one of the most highly publicized acts of political violence in recent memory.

Suspect may get death penalty
Authorities have arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, a Utah native, who now faces seven charges, including first-degree murder and unlawful use of a firearm in a public setting. According to Associated Press (AP), prosecutors have stated their intent to seek the death penalty, citing premeditation and political motivation as aggravating factors in what is being described as a calculated, ideologically driven attack.

Kirk is scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 29, where he and his legal team will decide whether to request a preliminary hearing, during which a judge will determine if there is enough evidence for the case to go to trial, AP reports.