Charlie Kirk's family attends hearing for suspect charged with his murder

Charlie Kirk's family attends hearing for suspect charged with his murder Image source, ReutersImage caption, Charlie Kirk's parents, Robert W. Kirk and Kathryn Kirk, arrive at a Utah courthouse on 6 May 2026BySheila FlynnSenior US ReporterPublished6 July 2026, 18:33 BSTUpdated 2 hours agoThe family of US conservative activist Charlie Kirk came face-to-face on Monday with his alleged killer as prosecutors laid out their evidence for the murder case against Tyler Robinson, 23, in a preliminary hearing.Kirk, a key Trump ally and founder of youth organisation Turning Point USA, was fatally shot on 10 September 2025 as he spoke on the campus of Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, kicking off an intense manhunt. Authorities announced the arrest two days later of Robinson, who has been charged with aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, obstructing justice and witness tampering.Robinson has not yet entered a plea. Utah County prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.Image source, ReutersImage caption, Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at a university event on 10 September 2025The family of Kirk, a 31-year-old father of two, released a statement to local media in advance of Monday's proceedings, which are scheduled to last through Friday."Charlie was a beloved husband, son, brother, friend, and father," said Kirk's widow, Erika, his parents, Robert and Kathryn, and sister, Mary. "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."Kirk's parents and widow arrived at court separately on Monday."We remain deeply grateful for the support, prayers, and kindness we have received," the family statement continued. "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 pri...