Prosecutors lay out evidence against Charlie Kirk's accused killer as widow and Don Trump Jr. attend hearing

The hearing

Prosecutors began presenting evidence Monday in a Provo, Utah, courtroom to establish probable cause that Tyler Robinson, 23, murdered conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The week-long preliminary hearing before District Court Judge Tony Graf will determine whether the case proceeds to trial. Robinson has not yet entered a plea. If the judge finds probable cause, an arraignment could follow the same day.

The evidence

Prosecutors plan to introduce surveillance video showing Robinson at Utah Valley University before and after the shooting, DNA from the rifle allegedly used, and a recorded statement from Robinson's former roommate and romantic partner, Lance Twiggs, who has received immunity. A handwritten note reading, "I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I took it," will also be presented. Text messages between Robinson and Twiggs include the line, "I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can't be negotiated out." The defense is expected to highlight inconclusive ballistics testing that failed to match a bullet fragment to the alleged murder weapon.

I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can't be negotiated out.

The victim

Charlie Kirk, 31, founded Turning Point USA at age 18 and became one of the most influential conservative activists in the country. He was a key ally of President Donald Trump, who credited Kirk's youth organization with helping secure his 2024 election victory. Kirk was fatally shot on September 10, 2025, while holding a campus debate at Utah Valley University in Orem, about 40 miles south of Salt Lake City. His killing, captured on cellphone video, intensified fears of political violence in an already polarized nation.

Family presence

Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, attended the hearing and left the courtroom as a police officer described the shooting. She has since taken over as CEO of Turning Point. Donald Trump Jr. was also present. In a joint statement, Kirk's family said, "Every court proceeding serves as a painful reminder of his death and the loss that has irrevocably impacted our lives and the lives of his children." At Kirk's memorial service last year, Erika Kirk said she had forgiven her husband's killer "because it was what Christ did," but still wanted accountability.

I have forgiven my husband's killer because it was what Christ did, but I still want him held accountable by the justice system.

What's next

Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for Robinson, who faces seven charges including aggravated murder. The hearing is expected to last several days. Robinson's defense has given few hints about its strategy beyond procedural challenges.