Major twist in Charlie Kirk case: Defense cites failure to link bullet with gun
Forensic analysis has failed to conclusively link the bullet that killed conservative commentator Charlie Kirk to the rifle used by his accused killer, according to court documents.
Tyler Robinson, 22, is facing capital murder charges and a potential death sentence following the Sept. 10, 2025, shooting on the campus of Utah Valley University.
Robinson's legal team is seeking to delay a preliminary hearing scheduled for May, arguing that a summary report from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) indicated the agency "was unable to identify the bullet recovered at autopsy to the rifle allegedly tied to Mr. Robinson."
The defense argues that the ATF findings could provide exculpatory evidence.
"In order to make this determination, it is necessary for the defense and its firearm expert to review the ATF case file and protocols relating to this examination, which have not yet been provided," the filing states.
The defense further noted that the FBI is currently conducting a second comparative bullet analysis and bullet lead analysis, neither of which are complete.
The probable cause statement filed by the Utah County Attorney's Office notes that investigators found a bolt-action 0.30-06 rifle wrapped in a towel in a wooded area near the campus.
Authorities state DNA consistent with Robinson was found on the rifle's trigger, the fired cartridge casing and the towel, according to The Associated Press .
Robinson's parents contacted police after recognizing their son in surveillance photos released to the media. Robinson later surrendered to the Washington County Sheriff's Office on the evening of Sept. 11, 2025.
Text messages recovered from Robinson's roommate show Robinson admitting to the shooting stating, "I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can't be negotiated out," The Associated Press reported.
The Utah County Attorney's Office has charged Robinson with multiple felonies, including aggravated murder.
Prosecutors have announced their intention to seek the death penalty. Robinson has not yet entered a plea and the upcoming May hearing will determine if the case proceeds to a trial.
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