Charlie Kirk’s parents and his widow, Erika Kirk, are expected to attend a major hearing next week in the murder case against the man accused of killing the conservative activist, according to a person familiar with the plans who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly.
The weeklong preliminary hearing, scheduled to begin July 6 in Utah, will be the most extensive public presentation of evidence in the case so far. Prosecutors will seek to show that they have enough evidence against Tyler Robinson to move forward with a trial.
It will also mark the first time Kirk’s family is expected to be in the courtroom with the man charged in his death.
Prosecutors have said they will seek the death penalty if Robinson is convicted. The 23-year-old from southwestern Utah faces an aggravated murder charge in connection with the Sept. 10 killing of Kirk, who was shot while speaking to a crowd of thousands at Utah Valley University. Robinson has not entered a plea.
Erika Kirk took over leadership of Turning Point USA, the conservative youth organization her husband co-founded, following his death last fall. At Kirk’s memorial service, she said she forgave the person accused of killing him, while also advocating for transparency and public access to the court proceedings.
She is expected to attend the hearing alongside Kirk’s parents, Robert and Kathryn Kirk, who have largely remained out of public view since their son’s death.
Prosecutors have indicated they plan to present a wide range of evidence during the hearing, including forensic analysis, surveillance footage, witness statements, autopsy results and alleged communications from Robinson that authorities say point to his involvement.
Investigators have said DNA consistent with Robinson’s was found on the trigger of the rifle allegedly used in the shooting, as well as on the fired cartridge casing, two unfired cartridges and a towel used to wrap the weapon.
Authorities also say Robinson left a note for his romantic partner before the shooting that stated: “I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I’m going to take it.”
The hearing will determine whether the case proceeds to a full trial, in which prosecutors would be required to prove their allegations beyond a reasonable doubt.
