A Utah judge is expected to decide on Monday whether parts of a major upcoming hearing in the Charlie Kirk murder case should be closed to the public and the media.
Tyler Robinson, 23, is charged with aggravated murder in connection with Kirk’s fatal shooting at Utah Valley University on September 10. Prosecutors have said they will seek the death penalty if Robinson is convicted.
The current dispute focuses on public access to the case. Robinson’s defense team wants the court to limit access to the July 6–10 preliminary hearing and seal a number of exhibits, arguing that intense media coverage could affect the fairness of a future trial.
Prosecutors oppose closing the courtroom entirely, but they agree that certain sensitive materials may need to remain private. Evidence expected to be discussed includes surveillance footage, forensic reports, witness statements, autopsy findings, and alleged messages connected to the case.
Investigators claim DNA linked to Robinson was found on several important pieces of evidence, including the rifle trigger, shell casings, unfired rounds, and a towel allegedly used to wrap the weapon.
Robinson has not yet entered a plea.
Monday’s ruling could determine how much of the evidence the public will be allowed to see before the case moves forward.