The preliminary hearing for 23-year-old Tyler Robinson, accused of killing Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, has begun in Utah.
During the hearing, which began Monday and is expected to last a week, prosecutors will seek to demonstrate there is enough evidence for the case to move forward.
Because Robinson was charged directly by information rather than a grand jury indictment, prosecutors must establish probable cause at the public preliminary hearing.
The charging document states that Robinson's DNA was found on the trigger of his grandfather's Mauser rifle, as well as on the towel the weapon was wrapped in and on the ammunition.
Additionally, the suspect's DNA was detected on a screwdriver found on a roof near the crime scene.
Digital evidence includes messages Robinson allegedly sent to his boyfriend Lance Twiggs and confessions he made on Discord.
Robinson allegedly texted Twiggs after the murder, "I hung out in Orem a bit longer. I can come home soon but I need to get my rifle first."
Twiggs cooperated with police and has not been charged; his video-recorded statement will be played at the hearing.
Prosecutors allege Robinson targeted Kirk because of his political views, tried to hide the clothes and weapon used in the crime, and asked Twiggs to delete incriminating messages and destroy the note.
In addition to aggravated murder, Robinson faces charges of witness tampering, committing a violent offense in the presence of a child, aggravated assault with a firearm, and obstruction of justice.
If the judge finds sufficient evidence to bind the case over to a higher court at the end of the preliminary hearing, Robinson will enter a plea.
The most serious charge, aggravated murder, carries the death penalty.
