SALT LAKE CITY – The man accused of assassinating Charlie Kirk, CEO and co-founder of Turning Point USA, is set to appear in court this week for a critical preliminary hearing. The five-day proceeding will determine whether prosecutors have presented enough evidence to move forward with a murder trial against 23-year-old Tyler Robinson.
The case carries the potential for the death penalty if Robinson is convicted. He has not yet entered a plea. Kirk, a prominent conservative figure and ally of former President Donald Trump, was a key figure in efforts to mobilize voters for the 2024 election.
Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, and his parents are expected to attend the hearing, which will be livestreamed.
Events Leading to the Shooting and Arrest
Prior to Kirk's scheduled appearance at Utah Valley University, a petition titled “Prevent Charlie Kirk from speaking at Utah Valley University” circulated online. The university, in response, issued a statement affirming its commitment to free speech and dialogue.
On the day of the event, school surveillance cameras reportedly captured the suspected shooter, identified as Robinson, walking onto campus around 11:51 a.m. Kirk began his event in the Fountain Courtyard at noon. Approximately 20 minutes later, while Kirk was taking questions from the audience about gun violence, a single shot was fired from what authorities described as a distant roof.
Dispatch recordings indicated that at 12:23 p.m., a Utah Valley University police officer reported, “Alpha 34, we have shots fired. Charlie Kirk is down.” Another officer noted Kirk was being transported to the hospital. FBI agents arrived on the scene shortly after. Videos circulating on social media at the time showed Kirk speaking at the event, then reaching for his neck as blood appeared, followed by screams and the crowd scattering.
An alert issued by Utah Valley University at 12:47 p.m. stated that a single shot had been fired and that a suspect was in custody. However, Orem Mayor Dave Young later stated that the suspected shooter remained at large. By 4:21 p.m., FBI Director Kash Patel announced via social media that the subject in custody had been released after interrogation and that the investigation was ongoing. Authorities confirmed Kirk had been taken to Timpanogos Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Investigation and Robinson's Capture
Evidence later emerged suggesting Robinson sent a text message to his roommate around the time of the incident, stating, “look under my keyboard.” A note found there reportedly read, “I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I’m going to take it.” Court documents indicate further text exchanges between Robinson and his partner, who expressed shock and inquired about the planning involved. Robinson also allegedly discussed attempting to retrieve his rifle, noting the presence of a law enforcement car nearby.
The FBI released photos of a person of interest, described as wearing a hat and sunglasses, and later released surveillance video of an individual crossing a roof and leaving campus. Around the time these images were released, Robinson's mother recognized him and, along with his parents, confronted him. The family arranged for him to meet with a retired sheriff's deputy.
At approximately 8:02 p.m., the Washington County Sheriff received a call from the retired deputy, who identified Robinson and was working with the family to encourage his voluntary surrender. Around 9 p.m., Robinson turned himself in to the Washington County Sheriff’s office with his parents, described as quiet and somber.
Charges and Court Proceedings
The following morning, authorities announced Robinson was in custody and booked into Utah County Jail. A probable cause statement later detailed the evidence against him, outlining charges of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a weapon causing serious bodily injury, and obstruction of justice. DNA found on a towel wrapped around a rifle recovered near the scene reportedly matched Robinson.
Prosecutors announced at noon that Robinson was charged with aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, obstructing justice, and witness tampering, alleging he instructed his partner to delete text messages and remain silent when questioned by police. Robinson briefly appeared before a judge via video from jail, acknowledging the charges and having a defense attorney appointed.
As students returned to campus for the first day of classes following the shooting, care stations were set up to offer support and counseling services.