ABC News Reporter Apologizes for Comments About Kirk Suspect’s Messages
Matt Gutman explained that his intention was to emphasize the ‘disparity’ between the homicide and the loving messages Tyler Robinson sent to his significant other.
ABC News correspondent Matt Gutman issued an apology regarding a segment where he characterized the text messages exchanged between the individual accused of killing conservative influencer Charlie Kirk and the suspect’s transgender partner as “deeply moving.”
Jeff Gray, the Utah County Attorney General, had publicly disclosed some of these messages during the announcement of charges against Tyler Robinson, who stands accused of the fatal shooting of Kirk at Utah Valley University.
“I want to protect you, my love,” Robinson purportedly communicated to his partner. Gutman referred to these messages as “a profoundly personal depiction” and “quite touching.” He further depicted Robinson as “an individual with deep human qualities” and noted a “poignant contrast” within the circumstances of the case, highlighting Robinson’s impressive academic achievements.
In the wake of public criticism, Gutman shared an apology on X.
“Yesterday, my intention was to emphasize the stark disparity between this brutal murder of Charlie Kirk… and the intimate, unsettling text messages publicly disclosed by the Utah County Attorney during the press briefing,” Gutman stated on Wednesday. “I profoundly regret that my choice of words failed to convey this clearly.”
“Let me be absolutely clear: I unequivocally denounce this atrocious act,” he declared.
Kirk, known as a conservative activist and the founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot during a university event earlier in the week. According to authorities, Robinson was apprehended and indicted following the discovery of evidence, such as text messages and surveillance video, that purportedly connected him to the offense.
The homicide has provoked responses from various points across the political spectrum, with certain individuals on the left publicly voicing their approbation.
Subsequent to the shooting, numerous individuals have encountered disciplinary actions concerning social media posts that seemingly lauded or derided Kirk’s demise.
MSNBC terminated its association with analyst Matthew Dowd after he drew a connection between the killing and Kirk’s public statements. The late-night program hosted by Jimmy Kimmel was indefinitely suspended from broadcast after remarks he made regarding the assassination.
Additional organizations, such as Nasdaq, the US Secret Service, United Airlines, Fox Sports, and the Washington Post, have also implemented measures against their personnel.
US Vice President J.D. Vance has urged the public to notify employers about individuals who commend or make light of the killing.