Preliminary trial over the shooting of a right‑wing influencer began today, with 23‑year‑old Tyler Robinson charged in the case.
Erika Kirk attended the hearing, which will determine whether the prosecution proceeds. She arrived with security, separate from Kirk's parents, and Donald Trump Jr. was also present.
Robinson faces charges of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, obstructing justice, and witness tampering. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.
The influencer, founder of a conservative organization, was shot on 10 September 2025 while speaking on the campus of Utah Valley University.
Kirk's family released a statement describing him as a beloved husband, son, brother, friend, and father, and expressing gratitude for the support received.
Robinson has not entered a plea; his attorneys have requested that the death penalty be removed from consideration.
Former university police officer Christopher Bagley testified about preserving the crime scene, noting a pistol holster on the ground and a red‑black screwdriver that appeared out of place.
Bagley also described evidence of a sniper pad, noting a disturbance at the scene and that the roof offered a clear line of sight to Kirk's position.
Surveillance footage allegedly showed an individual running to the roof edge, dropping down, and Bagley found a shoe print in the grass to the north‑east of the building.
The defense argued that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives could not identify the bullet recovered at autopsy as belonging to the rifle linked to Robinson.
Video evidence from the day was allowed in court; a judge called a private meeting over a clip alleged to have been altered, and the prosecution asked to prepare additional evidence.
The hearing concluded 15 minutes early, and Erika Kirk left court without speaking to media, having previously stated she forgives the shooter.
