Judge Sets 2028 Trial Date for Tyler Robinson in Charlie Kirk Murder Case

Key points

• Judge Tony Graf set jury selection to begin on June 21, 2028, for the trial of Tyler Robinson.
• Robinson is accused of shooting Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025.
• The defense requested a 2029 start, while prosecutors proposed January 2028 and the family demanded October 2027.
• Prosecutors allege Robinson targeted Kirk for his political beliefs and intend to seek the death penalty.
• Robinson has pleaded not guilty to aggravated murder and other charges.

Background

In September 2026, an independent review by the Lake Forest Group detailed security failures at Utah Valley University regarding the September 2025 shooting. The report highlighted coordination gaps between university police and Kirk’s private security team, though it found no evidence of bad faith by university staff. Kirk’s family has filed a wrongful-death notice based on these findings.

How outlets are covering it

Outlets highlight the tension between the parties. CNN and KUTV note the judge’s compromise between the defense’s 2029 request and the family’s 2027 demand. AP News emphasizes pressure from President Trump to speed up proceedings. KSL focuses on the judge’s review of scheduling requests. All sources agree on the June 2028 start date and the death penalty possibility.

Why it matters

The case involves a high-profile political figure and capital punishment. The trial schedule reflects conflicts between speedy trial rights for victims and due process for defendants in complex cases.

What to watch

The trial will begin in June 2028. Defense attorneys plan to review discovery and seek mitigating factors. Prosecutors will present evidence of political motivation. The outcome could influence future capital murder cases in Utah.