As a major court hearing begins in Utah, Candace Owens has reignited controversy over the Tyler Robinson case. When Robinson first appeared in court with Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erica Kirk, and his parents, Owens said that prosecutors were relying on unproven evidence and that emotions, not fairness, were driving the proceedings, sparking another round of public debate in this high-profile case.
Tyler Robinson’s trial begins as Candace Owens questions evidence
Tyler Robinson’s preliminary hearing took place July 6 in Utah, marking an important step in his criminal case over the September 2025 fatal shooting of political commentator Charlie Kirk. This was the first time Robinson came face to face with Charlie Kirk’s family, including his widow Erica Kirk.Before court proceedings began, conservative commentator Candace Owens shared a lengthy post on X, criticizing both the legal process and the public narrative surrounding the case.“Trying out for The Tyler Robinson Show starts today,” Candace wrote. “Evidence such as text message confessions will be allowed into the courtroom, despite the fact that Tyler’s defense has not been allowed to examine those messages to determine whether they were tampered with or who actually sent them. Remember, the FBI and ATF were not forced to hand over key evidence despite multiple discovery requests because the judge ruled it was not necessary at this stage.”Owens also challenged how witness testimony would be presented during the hearing.“Lance Twiggs’ key witness testimony will be played, but Lance Twiggs is not allowed to be cross-examined because the judge has ruled it is not necessary at this stage. Today is about emotion. You will hear the feds’ story with no ability for the defense to meaningfully dispute it.”His comments immediately attracted attention online, adding another layer of controversy to a case that has been under intense public scrutiny since Charlie Kirk’s death.
Tyler Robinson’s hearing focuses on evidence before judge’s decision
Owens continued his criticism by taking aim at Erica Kirk and social media personalities supporting the prosecution’s case.“What you can expect (besides Erica’s tears) is a bunch of her powerful influencers trying to convince you that the unproven evidence is “overwhelming” and “undeniable”. Sit back and watch the predictable show. The real test will come later. Charlie’s army is growing. Ultimately, the truth will prevail.”While Owens questioned the fairness of the proceedings, prosecutors prepared to present extensive evidence to Judge Tony Graf. The hearing serves as a preliminary examination rather than a full trial, meaning that prosecutors are only required to establish probable cause rather than proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.According to court filings, prosecutors reportedly intend to present DNA evidence linking Robinson to the suspected murder weapon, investigators’ testimony, autopsy findings, witness statements and surveillance video related to the shooting. Under Utah law, prosecutors are also allowed to rely on hearsay during this phase.Judge Graf had previously rejected the defense’s request to limit public access, allowing members of the media and the public to attend the hearing.The case relates to the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk on September 10, 2025, during a student question-and-answer event at Utah Valley University in Orem. Authorities allege Robinson shot the 31-year-old political activist during the event.Once both sides have completed their submissions, Judge Graf will decide whether prosecutors have presented enough evidence for the case to go to trial. That decision will not determine Robinson’s guilt or innocence, but will establish whether the prosecution has met the legal threshold required for the next phase of the criminal process.