Alleged Charlie Kirk assassin to face trial in June 2028

On September 10, 2025, US conservative activist Charlie Kirk was killed in an alleged murder on a Utah university campus. The judge has now announced that the trial of Tyler Robinson, 23, accused of gunning Kirk down, will commence in June 2028. Jury selection is set to begin on June 21, 2028, as 105 days have been earmarked for the trial.

The 31-year-old Kirk, known for his leadership in the Christian Nationalist movement, had become a popular figure in a conservative Christian nationalist movement that advocated traditional values while opposing diversity and LGBTQ communities. Turning Point, the right-wing youth organization, played a crucial role in mobilising support for Donald Trump's re-election campaign in 2024. Following Kirk's death, the group is now led by his wife, Erika Kirk.

Robinson faces the death penalty for allegedly shooting Kirk in the neck during an event organised by Turning Point. The prosecution has presented text messages allegedly showing Robinson confessing to planning the murder to his transgender roommate. The defense, however, has challenged the DNA and ballistic evidence presented by the prosecution.

Donald Trump, during a recent appearance, criticized the judge, stating that the trial should commence within a month rather than three years later. Kirk's assassination sparked a 33-hour manhunt that ended with Robinson's surrender to authorities. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.