A five-day preliminary hearing begins Monday in Utah to determine whether prosecutors have enough evidence to try Tyler Robinson, the 23-year-old accused of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The hearing will be livestreamed and attended by Kirk’s widow and parents, who will face Robinson in court for the first time.
Robinson, who has not entered a plea, is charged with aggravated murder in Kirk’s September 10, 2025, shooting at Utah Valley University. Prosecutors allege he confessed in a note left for his partner, stating he had the opportunity to kill Kirk and intended to do so. His attorneys have not commented on his guilt or innocence but have unsuccessfully sought to remove the death penalty as a possible punishment.
The hearing will serve as a 'mini trial,' allowing prosecutors to present evidence that may not be admissible at trial, including reliable hearsay testimony. Utah law requires prosecutors to prove probable cause that the alleged crimes occurred and that Robinson committed them. The judge will decide whether the case proceeds to trial, where the death penalty could be sought if Robinson is convicted.
Legal proceedings leading up to the hearing focused on media access, with strict rules set for attendance, including news crews. Kirk, a prominent conservative figure and ally of President Donald Trump, was a co-founder of Turning Point USA and a top podcaster. His death sparked national attention and mourning among his supporters.