Prosecutors in the pre-trial hearing for Tyler Robinson, accused of murdering Charlie Kirk, have presented a video depicting Robinson surrendering to law enforcement. The footage shows Robinson, clad in a maroon shirt, jeans, and a hat, in a room at the Washington County Sheriff's office, accompanied by his parents and a friend.
Hearing Proceedings and Evidence
The hearings, which began Monday, are intended to determine if there is sufficient probable cause to proceed to a full trial for Robinson, 23. Prosecutors are seeking to prove their case against him in this week-long proceeding. On Tuesday, an FBI report was presented, linking Robinson's DNA to a towel and a screwdriver. DNA from his roommate and transgender lover, Lance Twiggs, was also found on these items. Twiggs is expected to provide a recorded statement as a key witness, though he will not testify in person.
Prosecutors also plan to introduce a photo of a burnt note from the apartment and a video interview with Twiggs. Defense attorneys have raised concerns about the admissibility of a 22-page transcript of a video, seeking proposed redactions, which the judge agreed to address when the video is presented.
Background of the Case
Robinson, 23, faces the possibility of the death penalty if convicted in the September 10, 2025, murder of Kirk at a Turning Point USA event held at Utah Valley University. He has been in custody in Utah since his arrest. Robinson has not yet entered a plea. This week's hearing aims to establish the probable cause needed to move forward with a trial. It was also revealed that Robinson had made contact with members of Turning Point USA prior to the shooting.
Legal Arguments and Testimony
Attorneys for Robinson have spent significant time attempting to cast doubt on the prosecution's findings. On Tuesday, lawyers debated the admissibility of a statement from David Englehardt, a Turning Point USA board member. Prosecutors argued the statement confirmed Robinson's alleged motive, while the defense contended it did not reflect Robinson's state of mind. The judge provisionally admitted the statement, with a final decision pending.
Robinson's defense attorney, Kathy Nester, has also faced scrutiny, with prosecutors citing her prior high-profile cases. The prosecution expects to conclude its presentation on Thursday, possibly with further testimony from Utah Department of Public Safety Sergeant Jennifer Faumuina. The defense team plans to call two remaining witnesses from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.
The hearing is scheduled to conclude on Friday at 5 p.m. MT. Charlie Kirk's parents have been present throughout the proceedings. Conspiracy theories circulating after Kirk's death have also come under scrutiny during the hearings.