Prosecutors in Utah argued on Monday that Tyler Robinson, the man accused of fatally shooting conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, should stand trial, presenting evidence they said links him to the killing.
Evidence Presented in Court
During a preliminary hearing in Fourth District Court in Provo, Deputy Utah County Attorney Sam Pead told the judge that DNA evidence, surveillance footage, and cellphone data place Robinson at the scene of the June 2025 shooting outside a Provo restaurant. “The evidence is sufficient to bind the defendant over for trial,” Pead said.
Robinson, 32, is charged with first-degree murder and eight counts of aggravated assault. He has pleaded not guilty.
Defense Challenges Evidence
Defense attorney David Biggs argued that the evidence is circumstantial and that there is no direct witness identifying Robinson as the shooter. “The state’s case relies on speculation, not proof,” Biggs said. He also questioned the reliability of the DNA analysis.
The court is expected to rule on whether to proceed with trial within two weeks. If convicted, Robinson faces life in prison without parole.
Background of the Case
Charlie Kirk, 51, was a prominent conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA. He was shot outside a restaurant in Provo on June 15, 2025, and died at the scene. Robinson was arrested three days later after a manhunt.
Police say Robinson had a history of online threats against Kirk and had traveled from his home in Colorado to Utah days before the shooting. No motive has been officially stated.
The case has drawn national attention, with Kirk’s supporters calling for a swift trial. “We trust the judicial process will deliver justice for Charlie,” said a Turning Point USA spokesperson.
