The widow and family of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk are preparing to face his alleged assassin, Tyler Robinson, in court for the first time Monday. A preliminary hearing is scheduled to begin this week, where prosecutors are expected to present their case against Robinson, who is accused of shooting Kirk in September 2025 during an event at Utah Valley University.
In a statement released ahead of the proceedings, Charlie Kirk's family described the period since his death as "the darkest days of our lives." The statement, on behalf of his parents Robert and Kathryn, his sister Mary, and his widow Erika, emphasized the profound loss the family has experienced.
"Charlie was a beloved husband, son, brother, friend, and father. 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," the family said.
They also expressed gratitude for the support they have received. "We remain deeply grateful for the support, prayers, and kindness we have received. This outpouring has sustained us during the darkest days of our lives," the statement continued.
The family requested privacy as they navigate the legal process and their grief, stating, "Out of respect for the judicial process, we will not be commenting further at this time."
The preliminary hearing is anticipated to last the entire week. This stage of the legal process typically involves prosecutors laying out the evidence to establish probable cause that a crime was committed and that the defendant committed it. Tyler Robinson, 23, is accused of killing Kirk while the Turning Point USA founder was speaking at the Utah university.