Judge keeps hearing open in Charlie Kirk killing case despite defense objections

PROVO, UTAH: A Utah judge has ruled that a major preliminary hearing for the man accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk will remain open to reporters and members of the public, rejecting a request from defense attorneys to restrict access to the proceedings.

Judge Tony Graf issued the decision on Monday, June 1, clearing the way for public attendance during the July 6-10 hearing.

The proceeding is expected to be the most significant presentation of evidence in the case so far and will determine whether prosecutors have sufficient evidence to move forward to trial.

The ruling came after attorneys representing 23-year-old Tyler Robinson argued that portions of the hearing should be closed because of intense media scrutiny surrounding the case.

Defense cites concerns over media coverage

Robinson’s legal team has repeatedly expressed concern that extensive news coverage could affect public perception of their client before a trial begins.

According to court filings, defense attorneys argued that some reporting has inaccurately portrayed Robinson as public attention surrounding the case has intensified. They sought to limit access to portions of the hearing in an effort to protect his right to a fair trial.

Robinson, a resident of southwestern Utah, is charged in connection with the fatal shooting of Kirk on September 10, 2025, at Utah Valley University. He has not yet entered a plea to the charges.

Prosecutors prepare extensive evidence presentation

While prosecutors opposed closing the hearing, they agreed that certain exhibits should remain protected from public inspection because they could be introduced at a future trial.

During the hearing, prosecutors are expected to present a wide range of evidence, including forensic analyses, surveillance footage, witness interviews, autopsy findings and alleged communications linked to Robinson.

Investigators have said that DNA consistent with Robinson’s was discovered on several pieces of evidence connected to the shooting, including the trigger of the rifle allegedly used in the attack, a spent cartridge casing, unfired ammunition and a towel used to wrap the weapon.

Prosecutors have also cited a note allegedly written by Robinson to a romantic partner in which he stated that he intended to take action against Kirk if given the opportunity.

Death penalty remains on the table

The case carries particularly high stakes because prosecutors have announced their intention to seek the death penalty if Robinson is convicted.

The July hearing will provide the first detailed public look at the evidence gathered by investigators since the killing, which drew national attention because of Kirk’s prominence in conservative political circles.

Earlier this year, Robinson’s attorneys successfully sought a delay of the hearing, arguing that they needed additional time to review a large volume of evidence, including forensic and ballistic analyses.

With the judge’s ruling, the hearing is now set to proceed in open court, allowing the public and media to observe the presentation of evidence as the closely watched case moves toward a possible trial.