Prosecutors in Utah are seeking the death penalty for Tyler Robinson, 23, accused of murdering conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Sept. 10. A five-day preliminary hearing began Monday, presenting the most significant evidence in the case to date as prosecutors aim to convince a judge there is sufficient evidence to proceed to a trial.
Robinson, who turned himself in the day after the shooting, has been charged with aggravated murder. Prosecutors allege he confessed in a note left for his roommate, stating, "I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I'm going to take it." Robinson has not yet entered a plea, and his attorneys have not commented on his guilt or innocence, though they have unsuccessfully sought to have the death penalty removed as a possibility.
The hearing functions like a minitrial, requiring prosecutors to demonstrate reasonable grounds to believe Robinson killed Kirk, a lower standard than the "beyond a reasonable doubt" needed for a trial. State District Judge Tony Graf will ultimately decide if the case moves forward.
Prosecutors plan to present DNA evidence linking Robinson to the suspected murder weapon, autopsy findings, witness statements, and video of the killing. They are also expected to argue that the shooting endangered others at Kirk's campus event, a factor that could qualify the crime for the death penalty under Utah law. Hearsay evidence is permissible during this preliminary stage.
Robinson reportedly texted his roommate that he targeted Kirk because he "had enough of his hatred," according to prosecutors. While Robinson's roommate is not expected to testify in person, his recorded testimony could be a key focus for the prosecution.
Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was an influential figure in galvanizing conservative youth voters. President Donald Trump has stated his hope that Robinson receives the death penalty. Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, has publicly stated she forgives Robinson. She is expected to attend the hearing with Kirk's parents, Robert and Kathryn Kirk.