Former Utah Valley University police officer testifies in Charlie Kirk's murder case
A police officer on Monday recounted the frantic scenes immediately after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk last year, as prosecutors began presenting their case against the man charged with the killing.
Chris Bagley, a former campus police officer at Utah Valley University — where the 31-year-old Kirk was shot last September — described how law enforcement initially believed they had detained the shooter within minutes, only to realize they had the wrong individual. The suspect, 23-year-old Tyler Robinson, was not arrested until the following evening.
Kirk, leader and co-founder of the conservative activist organization Turning Point USA and TPUSA Faith, was fatally shot at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10 during a Q&A with the audience just moments after he was asked about mass shootings by transgender-identifying individuals.
In his testimony, Officer Bagley recalled the moment he understood the actual gunman remained at large. After rushing to the roof of a nearby building, he discovered a screwdriver and distinctive marks in the gravel, suggesting someone had been positioned there in a prone stance to fire.
Bagley, one of four law enforcement officers scheduled to testify Monday, also told attorneys that just moments after the shooting, he found an empty pistol holster near the Turning Point USA tent where Kirk was assassinated. When asked whether the holster was ever identified or investigated by authorities, Bagley said, “I have no idea.”
Robinson’s relatives reportedly identified him from surveillance images released by authorities and facilitated his surrender. He has remained in custody since and is expected to attend every session of the hearing this week.
The judge in the preliminary hearing in Provo, Utah, will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to send the case against Robinson to trial, where he could potentially face the death penalty. Expected to last throughout the week, the hearing — which has already faced repeated postponements and fueled various conspiracy theories — also saw Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, present in the courtroom along with supporters including Donald Trump Jr.
Erika Kirk and other family members and supporters excused themselves from the courtroom as Bagley provided grim details about the shooting and returned once that portion of his testimony was concluded.
Robinson — whose parents were also in attendance — appeared in court wearing a tie with his wrists and ankles shackled and was seen quietly consulting with his attorneys.
He did not enter a plea as of Monday afternoon.
The hearing also marked the first time Erika Kirk and Robinson were in the same room.
Prosecutors say they plan to introduce surveillance footage, autopsy results and statements from witnesses. They are also expected to play a recorded interview with Lance Twiggs, Robinson’s former roommate and romantic partner, which may provide insight into a possible motive.
Testimony is expected to resume Tuesday morning.
