UTAH COUNTY, Utah, July 6, 2026 (Gephardt Daily) — The family of slain political activist Charlie Kirk released a statement Monday, as the preliminary hearing begins for Tyler James Robinson, the Washington County man accused of Kirk’s fatal shooting.
“Charlie was a beloved husband, son, brother, friend, and father,” the statement says. “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.
“We remain deeply grateful for the support, prayers, and kindness we have received. 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.”
Kirk, a conservative political activist and media personality, and co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012. He was speaking at the invitation of a Utah Valley University student on Sept. 10, 2025 in Orem when he was fatally shot. He was 31 at the time of his death.
The day after the shooting, Robinson, now 23, turned himself in to local authorities in Washington County.
Robinson’s preliminary hearing begins today, and is expected to last five days. Prosecutors have said that, if ultimately convicted, Robinson will face the death penalty. The preliminary hearing will determine whether there is enough evidence to send Robinson to trial.
Kirk’s parents and widow are attending the preliminary hearing.
Gephardt Daily will have more information on the hearing as news breaks.
Charlie Kirk. File photo: X profile
