Preliminary Hearings Begin Monday in Charlie Kirk Assassination Case

Preliminary hearings in the case against Tyler James Robinson, accused of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk, are scheduled to begin Monday, July 6, 2026, in Provo, Utah. The five-day proceeding before Fourth District Judge Tony Graf will determine whether prosecutors have established probable cause to bind Robinson over for trial on charges including aggravated murder.

Charlie Kirk, 31, co-founder of Turning Point USA and a prominent conservative voice aligned with President Donald Trump, was fatally shot in the neck on September 10, 2025, while addressing thousands at Utah Valley University in Orem. Robinson, a 23-year-old from southwestern Utah, turned himself in after a 33-hour manhunt. He faces charges of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, obstruction of justice, and witness tampering. Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty if convicted of aggravated murder, an option upheld by the court. Robinson has not yet entered a plea.

During the hearings, set to run through July 10, prosecutors plan to present evidence to support probable cause. This includes forensic analyses such as DNA consistent with Robinson found on the rifle trigger, fired cartridge casing, unfired cartridges, and a towel used to wrap the weapon. Surveillance video from the campus, phone and social media data, text messages, and the autopsy report are also expected. A key element involves a prerecorded statement from Lance Twiggs, Robinson’s former roommate and romantic partner, who was granted limited immunity and in which Robinson allegedly confessed. Prosecutors have indicated they will introduce reliable hearsay evidence, which Judge Graf has allowed for the preliminary stage.

Defense attorneys have challenged aspects of the proceedings, including efforts to limit media access and cameras. The Utah Supreme Court recently denied Robinson’s petition to block livestreaming or delay the hearings. Judge Graf has permitted news photographers and a livestream but restricted other electronic devices in the courtroom to maintain order. The defense has also sought to bar certain hearsay and compel Twiggs to testify in person rather than via prerecorded video; those matters remain pending.

Erika Kirk, the victim’s widow, along with Kirk’s parents, is expected to attend. Both sides have agreed to provide advance notice before any graphic images or video are shown, allowing family members to step out if desired. The case has drawn intense public and media attention, including online speculation, prompting court measures to balance transparency with Robinson’s right to a fair trial.

If probable cause is found on any count, Robinson will be bound over for trial and is expected to enter pleas shortly thereafter. The hearings mark the first sustained public presentation of the state’s evidence in the high-profile matter.