Charlie Kirk's family attends hearing for suspect charged with his murder

A balding man in a grey suit holds the hand of a woman in a navy blue suit who is wearing sunglasses as both are walking

Image source, ReutersImage caption,

Charlie Kirk's parents, Robert W. Kirk and Kathryn Kirk, arrive at a Utah courthouse on 6 May 2026

BySheila FlynnSenior US Reporter

Published26 minutes ago

The family of US conservative activist Charlie Kirk came face-to-face on Monday with his alleged killer as prosecutors laid out their evidence for the murder case against Tyler Robinson, 23, in a preliminary hearing.

Kirk, a key Trump ally and founder of youth organisation Turning Point USA, was fatally shot on 10 September 2025 as he spoke on the campus of Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, kicking off an intense manhunt.

Authorities announced the arrest two days later of Robinson, who has been charged with aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, obstructing justice and witness tampering.

Robinson has not yet entered a plea. Utah County prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.

A man gestures with his hands as he talks in front of a red and purple background

Image source, ReutersImage caption,

Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at a university event on 10 September 2025

The family of Kirk, a 31-year-old father of two, released a statement to local media in advance of Monday's proceedings, which are scheduled to last through Friday.

"Charlie was a beloved husband, son, brother, friend, and father," said Kirk's widow, Erika, his parents, Robert and Kathryn, and sister, Mary. "Every court proceeding serves as a painful reminder of his death and the loss that has irrevocably impacted our lives and the lives of his children."

Kirk's parents and widow arrived at court separately on Monday.

"We remain deeply grateful for the support, prayers, and kindness we have received," the family statement continued. "This outpouring has sustained us during the darkest days of our lives.

"Out of respect for the judicial process, we will not be commenting further at this time. We ask for continued privacy as we navigate this process and immense grief."

A man with short wavy brown hair and beard stubble looks forward almost expressionless

Image source, Rick Egan/Pool via Reuters/File PhotoImage caption,

Tyler Robinson, 23

Defense attorneys in previous hearings sought to suppress various evidence and unsuccessfully attempted to ban cameras from the courtroom during the preliminary proceedings that began on Monday. They have also asked Judge Tony Graf to take the death penalty off the table.

Robinson, wearing a light-coloured suit, sat between his attorneys at the defense table.

Prosecutors announced Monday morning that four law enforcement witnesses were expected to take the stand during the day.