ABC News reporter Matt Gutman issued a public apology Wednesday after describing texts sent by the man accused of killing commentator Charlie Kirk as "very touching" during on-air coverage of the case.
In a post on X, Gutman said he had attempted to "underscore the jarring contrast between this cold blooded assassination of Charlie Kirk — a man who dedicated his life to public dialogue — and the personal, disturbing texts read aloud by the Utah County Attorney at the press conference." He added: "I deeply regret that my words did not make that clear. But let there be zero doubt here: I unequivocally condemn this horrific crime and the pain it caused Charlie Kirk's family, those who were forced to witness it at UVU, and the millions of people he inspired."
The apology followed an on-air segment in which Gutman referred to texts sent by the suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, as "very touching" after those messages were read aloud by the Utah County Attorney during a press conference. Kirk, a conservative commentator who was hosting a debate event at Utah Valley University in Orem, was shot and killed on Sept. 10, authorities say.
Robinson has been charged with capital murder and appeared in court Tuesday, according to prior reports. The texts in question were presented by prosecutors as part of the investigation and were cited during the public briefing on the case.
Gutman's comments drew immediate criticism from members of the public and commentators who said the description was inappropriate given the circumstances. ABC News had not released a statement on the matter as of Wednesday afternoon.
The coverage of the killing has generated extensive media attention and public debate. Authorities have described the case as an assassination and confirmed that Kirk was shot while participating in a university event. Following the shooting, local law enforcement held public briefings to provide details about the suspect, the alleged motive and evidence collected, including the messages prosecutors say Robinson sent after the killing.
In his X post, Gutman framed his original remark as an effort to highlight the contrast between the violent act and the personal nature of the suspect's messages, but acknowledged the wording failed to communicate that intent. He reiterated his condemnation of the killing and expressed regret for any misunderstanding his comments caused.
The investigation and criminal proceedings are ongoing. Court records show Robinson faces a capital murder charge; further hearings and potential filings are expected as the case moves through the Utah court system. Media outlets continue to report on developments, and public responses to both the killing and subsequent coverage remain active.
This article will be updated as additional information becomes available and as any official statements from ABC News or law enforcement are released.