Which word signifies something that is gruesome and marked by sensation?

The term "lurid" is indeed the correct choice as it captures the essence of something that is gruesome and sensational. It conveys a strong connotation of shocking or sensational details that often provoke a strong emotional response, especially in a way that might be considered morbid or disturbing. This aligns well with the idea of being gruesome, as the word typically refers to representations or descriptions that are vivid, exaggerated, and often focused on the more disturbing aspects of an experience.

In contrast, other options do not convey this specific meaning. "Tragic" relates to events that evoke sadness or a sense of loss but does not emphasize the sensational or gruesome aspects. "Gory," while it does indicate something that is bloody or violent, does not encompass the broader range of sensational qualities that "lurid" does, which includes vivid imagery and a certain impact on the viewer or reader. "Charming," on the other hand, is completely opposite in connotation, referring to something that is delightful or pleasing, making it unrelated to the concepts of gruesomeness or sensationalism.