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Provo, Utah — The Charlie Kirk murder case continues to draw national attention as a Utah judge granted more time for the defense to review extensive evidence. Prosecutors accuse 22-year-old Tyler Robinson of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Sept. 10. They intend to seek the death penalty.
Robinson’s new attorney, Kathryn Nester, told the court Monday that her team will not waive a preliminary hearing. That hearing will determine if enough evidence exists to move forward with a trial. Judge Tony Graf scheduled the next hearing for Oct. 30.
Evidence revealed in the case
Prosecutors described the evidence against Robinson as “voluminous,” including DNA samples, text messages, and a handwritten note. Authorities say the note revealed Robinson’s plan to kill one of the nation’s leading conservative voices.
Robinson also allegedly texted his partner that he had “enough of [Kirk’s] hatred.” He appeared by audio from jail during Monday’s hearing, while both the defense and prosecution declined to comment afterward.
Authorities arrested Robinson when he voluntarily turned himself in at a sheriff’s office in southwest Utah, more than three hours away from the crime scene.
Political shockwaves across the U.S.
The assassination has shaken Republicans nationwide. Former President Donald Trump declared Kirk a “martyr for freedom” and vowed to crack down on what he called the “radical left.”
Kirk, a close Trump ally, founded Arizona-based Turning Point USA. The group energized young, evangelical Christians through podcasts, social media, and campus events. Following his death, high-profile Republicans including Utah Gov. Spencer Cox and Sen. Mike Lee have stepped in to headline upcoming events originally planned for Kirk.
Fallout in schools and media
The aftermath has sparked heated debates across workplaces and campuses. Teachers, employees, and media figures have faced punishment for comments about Kirk’s death. Among them was comedian Jimmy Kimmel, whose late-night show was briefly suspended by ABC before being reinstated.
Meanwhile, many students at Utah Valley University in Orem, near the shooting site, are still processing the trauma of both the attack and the lengthy manhunt.
What’s next in court
The Charlie Kirk murder case will return to court on Oct. 30. Prosecutors remain firm on pursuing the death penalty, while the defense continues to examine the growing pile of evidence.
