U.S. states with capital punishment statutes as of 2025
UTAH EXECUTIONS SINCE 1977
7
total executions carried out in Utah since reinstatement
TURNING POINT USA REACH
3M+
social media followers Kirk held at time of death
HEARING PHASE
Preliminary
probable cause determination before capital trial can proceed
▶
Active Proceeding
Preliminary hearing scheduled 2026-07-07 — Utah court will determine probable cause to proceed to capital trial against Tyler Robinson in the death of Charlie Kirk.
Procedural Timeline
Phase-by-Phase Detail
COMPLETE
2025-Q3
Alleged Killing
Tyler Robinson is accused of killing Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA and leading figure in the American conservative movement, on September 10, 2025 at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.
COMPLETE
2025-Q3
Arrest & Charges Filed
Robinson surrendered to authorities on September 11, 2025. Prosecutors filed capital murder charges on September 16, 2025 under Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-202, which governs aggravated murder eligible for the death penalty.
IN PROGRESS
2026-07-07
Preliminary Hearing
Prosecutors formally present evidence before a Utah judge. The standard is probable cause — whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed to a full capital trial. Kirk's widow and parents expected to attend.
UPCOMING
TBD
Arraignment / Formal Plea
If probable cause is found, Robinson is formally arraigned and enters a plea. Defense may challenge evidence or seek to exclude the death penalty as a sentencing option.
UPCOMING
TBD
Pre-Trial Motions
Both sides file motions on evidence admissibility, venue, jury composition, and constitutional challenges to the capital charge.
UPCOMING
TBD
Capital Trial — Guilt Phase
Jury determines guilt or innocence on the capital murder charge.
UPCOMING
TBD
Capital Trial — Penalty Phase
If convicted, a separate proceeding determines whether Robinson receives the death penalty or life without parole.