Judge Blocks Ex-roommate's Testimony in Kirk Shooting Case

WHO:

CBS News - Tyler Robinson, the suspect accused in Charlie Kirk's murder, is 23 years old.

CBS News - Judge Tony Graf made the ruling regarding the testimony.

CBS News - Charlie Kirk was a close ally of President Trump.

CBS News - Deputy Utah County Attorney Christopher Ballard is involved in the case.

WHAT:

CBS News - A Utah judge ruled that Robinson's ex-roommate will not have to testify in person during a preliminary hearing.

CBS News - Robinson is charged with aggravated murder in the killing of Kirk.

CBS News - Prosecutors stated that DNA consistent with Robinson's was found on the trigger of the rifle, the fired cartridge casing, and two unfired cartridges.

CBS News - Robinson reportedly texted his roommate that he targeted Kirk because he "had enough of his hatred."

CBS News - The defense team requested to block the death penalty, claiming prosecutors' comments could influence potential jurors.

NBC News - A motion by Robinson’s attorneys to subpoena his former romantic partner to testify in-person was dismissed.

WHERE:

CBS News - The shooting occurred at Utah Valley University.

WHEN:

CBS News - The preliminary hearing is set to begin on July 6.

CBS News - The murder of Kirk occurred on September 10.

WHY:

CBS News - The defense argued that the credibility of any testimony could be challenged later if the case goes to trial.

CBS News - The defense claimed that a bullet fragment could not be conclusively connected to the rifle found near the scene.

HOW:

CBS News - Judge Graf stated that the purpose of a preliminary hearing is to establish whether there is enough evidence to justify bringing the case to trial, not to determine guilt or innocence.

CBS News - The defense team requested a delay in the preliminary hearing to review material, including bullet analysis.

(UPDATED June 23, 2026 13:54 UTC)

In a significant development, a Utah judge has ruled that Tyler Robinson's ex-roommate will not have to testify in person during the preliminary hearing related to the aggravated murder charge against Robinson in the killing of Charlie Kirk, a close ally of President Trump. Prosecutors have indicated that DNA consistent with Robinson's was found on key evidence, including the trigger of the rifle and fired cartridge casing, while Robinson allegedly texted his roommate that he targeted Kirk due to "enough of his hatred." The preliminary hearing is scheduled to begin on July 6, where the judge will determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial.