Pre-trial hearings for Tyler Robinson, the suspect accused of assassinating conservative commentator Charlie Kirk in September 2025, are beginning to confront a deluge of conspiracy theories that emerged immediately after the on-camera shooting. Prosecutors in Provo, Utah, have presented surveillance footage and autopsy findings that appear to contradict several popular narratives, including claims that Robinson was not present on the Utah Valley University campus or that Kirk was not killed by a bullet.
Commentator Candace Owens, who has a large online following, has been a prominent voice amplifying alternative theories. Owens has questioned whether Robinson, who is listed as 5'10", could be the individual seen in surveillance footage, suggesting the person in the video was taller, possibly 6'2" or 6'3". Prosecutors countered this by presenting surveillance footage allegedly showing Robinson on campus prior to the shooting. IMAGE2
Owens also promoted the theory that Kirk was not shot but injured by an exploding microphone, a claim directly refuted by the autopsy report. The medical examiner concluded that Kirk died from a single gunshot wound to the neck. Owens has dismissed this, citing a lack of an exit wound, and has also cast doubt on the surveillance evidence. IMAGE6
Other theories circulating online and amplified by commentators include the possibility that Kirk's security team was involved, or that a foreign government played a role. Some individuals, like podcaster Keli Rabon, have traveled to attend the hearings, expressing a belief that Kirk is still alive and orchestrating an elaborate "psy-op." Rabon suggested Kirk is working with political figures like President Trump. "You're going to think I'm crazy, but I think Charlie is still alive," Rabon told reporters outside the courthouse.
The investigation has also faced scrutiny regarding its execution. During testimony, former Utah Valley special officer Chris Bagley admitted his body camera battery died while he was on the rooftop where the fatal shot was allegedly fired. He also stated he did not find a rifle case Robinson reportedly carried and was unaware of the identity of another plainclothes officer present on the roof. Furthermore, Bagley conceded he did not collect an empty pistol holster found in the amphitheater where Kirk was killed. These admissions have fueled further speculation on social media, with Owens sharing a livestream of Bagley's testimony and remarking, "Our government thinks we are ret***ed. They legitimately hate us."
Prosecutors are also preparing to present a ballistics expert to address findings from a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) report. This report, unsealed in April, stated that bullet fragments recovered from Kirk's body were "inconclusive" when compared to Robinson's rifle. Prosecutors contend that such results do not rule out Robinson's weapon, as bullet damage can often prevent a definitive match. IMAGE9
Despite the prosecution's efforts to present a clear evidentiary path, Owens has continued to predict alternative outcomes. She suggested that Robinson's transgender lover, Lance Twiggs, who is expected to testify, will be revealed as a federal asset involved in a setup. Owens reiterated her belief in conspiracy theories, stating, "I’m feeling like those pesky conspiracy theorists are going to be proven right again."