The final days of a preliminary hearing in the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk focused on evidence prosecutors say shows a suspect admitted to the shooting and left physical traces investigators later found.
Prosecutors told Fourth District Court in Provo they recovered text messages they say were sent by defendant Tyler Robinson shortly after the Sept. 10 shooting. An agent with the Utah State Bureau of Investigation read portions of the messages aloud as the state moved to corroborate them with material evidence.
"Tyler says, 'I'm still okay, my love, but I'm stuck in Orem for a little while longer yet,' ... 'Shouldn't be long until I can come home, but gotta grab my rifle still. To be honest, I had hoped to keep this secret till I died of old age. I am sorry to involve you.'"
Physical evidence prosecutors say backs messages
Investigators testified they found a rifle wrapped in a towel in a wooded area near the university campus where the shooting occurred. Inside, they said, was a fired cartridge case and three live rounds that had been engraved with messages. One of the engravings was described in court as reading, "Hey fascist! Catch!"
Forensic testimony also described a Dremel-style rotary tool recovered during a search of Robinson's home; specialists told the court the markings on the ammunition were consistent with engraving by such a tool. Defense attorneys challenged that analysis, arguing the conclusions were based on subjective observations.
Robinson has pleaded not guilty to aggravated murder and related charges. Prosecutors have presented their case to the judge to establish probable cause for the case to proceed to trial.
- Prosecutors introduced text messages they say came from Robinson shortly after the shooting.
- Investigators recovered a rifle and engraved rounds near campus; a rotary tool was seized from the defendant's home.
- The defense disputed the forensic interpretation of the engravings; the defendant maintains a not-guilty plea.
Next steps in the case
The preliminary hearing concluded Friday. The judge allowed both sides to file legal briefs before making a decision on whether there is probable cause for the case to move forward toward trial. A further court hearing is scheduled for Sept. 1.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Charge | Aggravated murder and other counts (defendant pleaded not guilty) |
| Evidence shown | Text messages, recovered rifle, fired cartridge case, three engraved live rounds, rotary tool |
| Court | Fourth District Court, Provo |
| Next hearing | Sept. 1 (further arguments on probable cause) |
The judge’s forthcoming ruling will determine whether prosecutors have presented sufficient evidence to advance the case to trial. Both sides will submit written briefs to the court before the judge issues a decision.
Coverage will continue as the court files and future hearings are scheduled.
