Key facts
- Prosecutors are arguing for Tyler Robinson to stand trial for the murder of Charlie Kirk.
- The preliminary hearing will present evidence including DNA, witness statements, and autopsy findings.
- Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty, citing the alleged assassination of Kirk.
- Robinson allegedly confessed in a note and texts, stating he targeted Kirk for his "hatred".
- Kirk was a conservative activist and ally of President Donald Trump.
Prosecutors in Utah are arguing that Tyler Robinson, 23, should stand trial for the alleged assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. A five-day preliminary hearing is set to begin, where prosecutors will present evidence to convince a judge they have sufficient grounds to proceed with a trial and pursue the death penalty. The evidence is expected to include DNA linking Robinson to the murder weapon, investigator testimony, autopsy findings, witness statements, and video of the killing. Prosecutors also plan to present an alleged confession note left by Robinson for his roommate, which stated he "had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I’m going to take it." Robinson reportedly texted his roommate that he targeted Kirk because he "had enough of his hatred." Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was an ally of President Donald Trump. Robinson has not yet entered a plea, and his attorneys have unsuccessfully attempted to have the death penalty removed as a possible sentence. The standard of proof for a preliminary hearing is lower than for a trial, requiring prosecutors to demonstrate reasonable grounds to believe Robinson killed Kirk. Judge Tony Graf will ultimately decide if the case moves to a full trial. Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, and his parents, Robert and Kathryn Kirk, are expected to attend the hearing.