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Kirk shooting evidence under scrutiny as defense challenges bullet-rifle link
Robinson’s lawyers argue that ATF analysis failed to connect the bullet that killed Kirk to his client’s rifle
Lawyers for Tyler Robinson, the man accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, claim in a new court filing that authorities have been unable to conclusively link the bullet that killed Kirk to a rifle “allegedly tied” to their client.
The filing, submitted as part of a motion to delay Robinson’s preliminary hearing scheduled for May, cites an Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms (ATF) report indicating that the agency “was unable to identify the bullet recovered at autopsy to the rifle allegedly tied to Mr. Robinson.”
“Although the State has not indicated an intent to produce this report at the preliminary hearing, the defense may very well decide to offer the testimony of the ATF firearm analyst as exculpatory evidence,” the motion reads.
Robinson’s attorneys also noted that they have yet to receive the ATF case file and protocols needed to review the analysis.
Additionally, they said the FBI is conducting a second comparative bullet and lead analysis, which remains incomplete.
Robinson is accused of shooting Kirk during a Turning Point USA event on the campus of Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on September 10, 2025. Kirk was struck by a bullet fired from over 100 yards away.
Following the shooting, authorities launched a multi-day manhunt, ultimately apprehending Robinson after a tip from a family member.
He faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated murder. Prosecutors have stated they intend to seek the death penalty. Robinson has not yet entered a plea.
