Important hearing begins for Tyler Robinson in Charlie Kirk murder trial
Preliminary hearing in Charlie Kirk case begins, with prosecutors claiming probable cause against Tyler Robinson.
Family members of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, including his widow Erica Kirk, appeared in court as prosecutors began laying out evidence against the man accused of murder.
Investigators began testifying on July 6 about the chaotic moments after Kirk, 31, was shot during a September event at Utah Valley University and the subsequent search for his killer. Tyler Robinson, 23, turned himself in after a 33-hour manhunt and was charged with aggravated murder and other felonies. Utah State Attorney Jeff Gray has indicated he will seek the death penalty, a move supported by President Donald Trump.
The testimony is part of the prosecution’s effort to convince Judge Tony Graff that there is enough evidence that Robinson committed the crime and the murder trial should proceed. Robinson’s attorney questioned law enforcement witnesses about security preparations for the event and the investigation. His defense team has indicated that they also intend to call their own witnesses.
Graff admitted in court at the beginning of a week-long preliminary hearing on July 6 that she was Kirk’s widow. Kirk’s parents, Kathryn and Robert, were seen entering the courtroom before the hearing began. The president’s son, Donald Trump Jr., was also in attendance.
Some of Kirk’s family left the courtroom before prosecutors showed video of the shooting taken by bystanders, videographers and surveillance cameras. Prosecutors are expected to continue presenting video evidence and call at least two more law enforcement witnesses on July 7 as the hearing continues.
Kirk’s widow, who took over leadership of Turning Point USA after her husband’s death, said in a tearful speech at a memorial service in Arizona that she had forgiven Robinson.
“I forgive him, because that’s what Christ did and that’s what Charlie would do,” said Erica Kirk, 36, of Glendale, Arizona, to a standing ovation. “The answer to hate is not hate. The answer we know from the gospel is love.”
The hearing began after months of prosecutors and defense attorneys arguing over what evidence they could present and whether to allow cameras in the courtroom, as Erika Kirk had requested. Cameras were allowed, but the judge prohibited them from filming some of the graphic footage that took place in court.
In a statement released on social media, Kirk’s family thanked supporters and asked for privacy as the judicial process progresses.
“Charlie was a beloved husband, son, brother, friend and father,” the statement said. “Every court proceeding serves as a poignant reminder of his death and the loss that has irrevocably affected our lives and the lives of his children.”
Contributor: Reuters; Zach Anderson and Thao Nguyen, USA TODAY
