By Gloria Nosa
A Utah defense attorney representing Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, has asked for more time to examine what she described as a “massive” trove of evidence before deciding whether to request a preliminary hearing.
Preliminary hearings determine if prosecutors have enough evidence to take a case to trial. Defendants may waive the process, but Robinson’s new lawyer, Kathryn Nester, told Judge Tony Graf on Monday that her team does not intend to do so.
Robinson faces an aggravated murder charge, and Utah prosecutors have announced they will pursue the death penalty. Both sides acknowledged in Monday’s brief court session that the state’s evidence is extensive. Robinson did not attend in person but joined the hearing by audio from jail at his defense team’s request. The next hearing is set for October 30.
Authorities say Robinson shot and killed Kirk on September 10 during a student debate near Utah Valley University in Orem. Investigators claim they have incriminating text messages, DNA evidence, and a note Robinson allegedly left for his romantic partner saying he planned to “take” the opportunity to kill one of the nation’s leading conservative voices.
Robinson later turned himself in at his hometown sheriff’s office in southwest Utah, more than three hours from the crime scene. Prosecutors and defense attorneys declined to speak with reporters after Monday’s hearing.
Kirk’s killing — which Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray has called an assassination — has electrified Republican circles. Former President Donald Trump labeled Kirk a “martyr for freedom” and vowed to crack down on what he calls “radical left” threats. Kirk’s group, Turning Point USA, is credited with mobilizing young conservatives through campus events, podcasts and social media.
