Utah Judge Orders Public Hearing in Charlie Kirk Murder

Utah District Judge Tony Graf denied the defense's request to close portions of the preliminary hearing in the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The judge ruled that the hearing, scheduled for July 6‑10, will remain open to reporters and the public.

Prosecutors plan to present forensic evidence, surveillance video, witness statements, autopsy findings and communications alleged to link 23‑year‑old Tyler Robinson to the September 10, 2025 shooting at Utah Valley University. They intend to seek the death penalty if Robinson is convicted. Robinson has not entered a plea and is being held without bail.

Robinson's attorneys sought to seal dozens of exhibits, arguing that public exposure could prejudice a future jury pool. Judge Graf cited the presumption of public access, stating, "The public and the media enjoy a presumptive right to access court proceedings, including preliminary hearings." The decision underscores ongoing tensions between media transparency and fair‑trial concerns in a high‑profile criminal case.