The second day of the preliminary hearing for Tyler Robinson, accused of the 2025 murder of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, saw emotional moments from Kirk's widow, Erika, as well as a public display of support from Donald Trump Jr. and his wife, Bettina Anderson.
The proceedings, held at the Provo District Courthouse in Utah, were marked by heavy security, including snipers on the roof and armed officers in the lobby and courtroom. Erika Kirk, often dabbing her eyes, sat with Kirk's parents, appearing visibly distraught as footage of the events leading up to her husband's death was presented. She and Kirk's parents left the courtroom twice during the morning session.
Donald Trump Jr. and Bettina Anderson were present, having also attended the first day of the hearing. They sat behind Robinson's parents, Matthew and Amber, who maintained a stoic demeanor throughout the testimony.
Robinson, 23, faces the possibility of the death penalty if convicted of murdering Kirk at a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. He has not yet entered a plea. During the testimony, Robinson presented a largely indifferent facade, though he occasionally exhibited subtle signs of emotion, such as rolling a pen or scratching his eye. He reportedly offered a brief smirk as reporters left the courtroom.
Testimony and Legal Arguments
Tuesday's testimony focused on the movements of Robinson in the hours before Kirk was killed. Utah State Bureau of Investigation agent David Hull testified that Robinson visited the amphitheater where Kirk was preparing to speak and interacted with members of the Turning Point USA organization. Hull also stated that Robinson purchased food from Chick-fil-A approximately two hours before the shooting.
Prosecutors presented surveillance footage allegedly showing Robinson's vehicle on the UVU campus before the assassination. However, on the first day of hearings, a judge expressed concern over edited surveillance footage presented by the state, which included circles and zooms. Defense attorney Kathy Nester is attempting to prevent key evidence from being admitted, while prosecutor Ryan McBride is building the case for probable cause.
Defense Strategy and Prosecution's Case
Robinson's defense attorney, Kathy Nester, who has represented other high-profile defendants, led the morning's proceedings. In the afternoon, defense attorney Michael Burt questioned FBI scientist Amanda Bakker for over three hours regarding DNA testing methods. Nester aims to cast doubt on the evidence identifying Robinson as the perpetrator.
Prosecutors are expected to present evidence including DNA linking Robinson to the murder weapon, witness statements, and further surveillance footage. They also intend to introduce messages Robinson allegedly sent to his transgender partner, Lance Twiggs, on the day of the shooting, referencing Kirk's "hatred."
The preliminary hearing is scheduled to continue for the week. Robinson has been in custody since his arrest 33 hours after Kirk's death.