Key Hearing for Charlie Kirk Murder Suspect Will Be Open to Reporters and Members of the Public, Judge Rules
Updated on: June 1, 2026 / 1:07 PM EDT / CBS/AP
TL;DR
- A Utah judge ruled that the preliminary hearing for the suspect accused in the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk will be open to the public and reporters.
- The ruling denied a request from the suspect's defense team to close portions of the hearing, which is scheduled for July 6-10.
- Prosecutors plan to present evidence including forensic analyses, surveillance video, witness statements, autopsy findings, and alleged messages from the suspect admitting to the crime.
- DNA consistent with the suspect was found on the murder weapon and related items, and a note allegedly from the suspect stated his intention to kill Kirk.
- The suspect's lawyers had argued for more time to review evidence and sought to delay the hearing, while also attempting to limit media access.