The investigation into the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk took a decisive step this Monday with the start of the preliminary hearing in Utah, where the prosecution began to present evidence with which it seeks to demonstrate that there are sufficient elements to bring Tyler Robinson, the main accused of the crime that occurred in September 2025, to trial.

Among the evidence exposed during the first day, the autopsy report stood out, which concluded that Kirk's death was a homicide by firearm, as well as surveillance videos that, according to prosecutors, show the accused in the vicinity of Utah Valley University before, during and after the attack.

Judge Tony Graf authorized the incorporation of the video of the shooting as evidence in the process, despite opposition from the defense, which argued that the images could improperly influence a potential jury. The recording was recorded as one of the main evidence presented by the prosecution.

The investigation is supported by videos and forensic evidence

During his testimony, investigator David Hull assured that authorities collected nearly 16 hours of recordings captured by cameras on the university campus. As he explained, the images allegedly show Robinson or the gray Dodge Challenger that he would have driven on the day of the murder at four different times during the day.

Hull also identified the defendant in the courtroom as the same person seen in the surveillance videos. In addition, prosecutors maintain that they have other forensic evidence, including DNA found on the trigger of the gun that was allegedly used in the attack.

For his part, agent Chris Bagley described the operation carried out after the shooting and reported that investigators found a screwdriver on a roof and an area that they considered compatible with a possible position used by the shooter. However, during cross-examination, the defense questioned the strength of the investigation and raised the possibility that another person had been at that location before the police arrived.

Kirk's family and conservative figures are closely following the process

The hearing brought together in court Charlie Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, her relatives and several figures linked to the conservative movement, including Donald Trump Jr. and commentator Jack Posobiec. Hours before the start of the process, the family released a statement in which they described each court appearance as “a painful reminder” of the loss suffered and thanked the expressions of support received since the murder of the founder of Turning Point USA.

Robinson faces charges of aggravated murder, use of a firearm and obstruction of justice. If convicted, he could face the death penalty under Utah law. The case has maintained widespread public attention due to the political profile of Kirk, who was considered one of President Donald Trump's most visible allies and an influential figure within the conservative movement.

At the same time, authorities have had to confront the circulation of conspiracy theories about the crime, while the prosecution insists that the evidence presented will be sufficient for the process to continue toward a formal trial.

The preliminary hearing will continue for the rest of the week, during which the prosecution plans to present dozens of additional evidence before the judge determines whether there are legal grounds for Robinson to be prosecuted at trial.