A Utah judge is scheduled to set a trial date on Monday for the man accused of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Tyler Robinson, 23, faces charges of aggravated murder in Kirk's death.
Robinson has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Kirk, 31, was killed on September 10, 2025, while speaking at Utah Valley University. Robinson surrendered to authorities the day after the shooting. His defense attorneys have not presented alternative theories for Kirk's death.
Prosecutors anticipate a 17-week trial, suggesting readiness by October 2027 and proposing a January 2028 start to avoid holiday conflicts. However, an attorney for Kirk's wife, Erika, has argued for a trial to begin as early as next October, citing Utah law that protects victims' speedy trial rights.
Robinson could face the death penalty if convicted. The prosecution alleges Robinson targeted Kirk due to his political beliefs. Evidence presented includes a bullet found in the rifle used in the killing, engraved with the message "Hey Facist! CATCH!" Additionally, text messages attributed to Robinson state, "I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can’t be negotiated out."
Robinson's legal team has cited the need to review tens of thousands of files from prosecutors and conduct extensive investigations into Robinson's life to identify mitigating factors for sentencing. They also plan to dedicate significant time to jury selection.
Former President Donald Trump has publicly called for a swift trial, stating on social media that Robinson should be tried "within a month" and criticizing the pace of the proceedings.