Charlie Kirk shooting suspect Tyler Robinson will face trial in Utah, judge rules

A Utah judge has ruled that the case against Tyler Robinson, the man accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, can proceed to trial after finding sufficient probable cause.

Robinson faces charges including aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, obstruction of justice and witness tampering over Kirk's fatal shooting at Utah Valley University last September.

Prosecutors argued during Tuesday's preliminary hearing that evidence showed Robinson targeted Kirk because he disagreed with his views.

Deputy Utah County Attorney Ryan McBride said Robinson had scouted locations on the university campus before returning “dressed to kill”.

Prosecutors also argued the shooting created a serious risk to thousands of people gathered around Kirk.

“You can’t shoot a rifle into a crowd of 3,000 people without knowing that you create a great risk of death” to those nearby, McBride said, according to CNN.

Defence lawyers challenged the prosecution's case, arguing some evidence relied on speculation and that there was “no evidence” anyone other than Kirk had been threatened.

Robinson's lawyers also disputed claims that Kirk was targeted because of his political views.

Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, and his parents attended Tuesday's hearing but left the courtroom when prosecutors discussed details of the fatal shooting.