The criminal case against the man accused of killing Charlie Kirk is set to reach a major milestone next week as a Utah judge considers whether prosecutors have presented enough evidence for the case to move toward Trial.
Family members, including Charlie Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, and his parents, are expected to attend the week-long preliminary hearing in Provo, Utah, according to a source familiar with the case, per the New York Post.
Several close friends of the family are also expected to be present during the proceedings, which are scheduled to begin Monday morning.
The defendant, 23-year-old Tyler Robinson, faces multiple charges in connection with the fatal shooting of Kirk on Sept. 10 while the conservative activist was addressing a large crowd at Utah Valley University in Orem.
During the preliminary hearing, prosecutors will present evidence and witness testimony before Judge Tony Graf. Rather than determining guilt or innocence, the hearing is designed to establish whether sufficient evidence exists for Robinson to stand Trial.
A preliminary hearing serves as an alternative to presenting the case before a grand jury. If the judge finds probable cause, the prosecution will move forward with formal Trial proceedings.
The hearing could include graphic evidence connected to the public shooting, which occurred in front of thousands of attendees.
Court proceedings at this stage often feature investigative findings, physical evidence, and witness accounts that prosecutors intend to rely on if the case proceeds.
Robinson has not yet entered a plea. Prosecutors have indicated he could face the death penalty if he is ultimately convicted.
There remains a possibility that next week's proceedings could be delayed. Robinson is currently appealing several pretrial rulings, including Judge Graf's decision to allow cameras inside the courtroom during the hearing.
Erika Kirk, who is serving as a victim representative in the case, has supported expanded media access to the proceedings. Her position aligns with the court's decision to permit camera coverage, although that issue remains part of Robinson's pending appeals.
The hearing is expected to continue throughout the week unless postponed by the court.
By its conclusion, Judge Graf will decide whether the evidence presented meets the legal threshold required for the case to advance to Trial, marking the next significant step in one of Utah's highest-profile criminal prosecutions.