“The ATF was unable to identify the bullet recovered at autopsy to the rifle allegedly tied to Mr. Robinson,” stated defense attorneys in a recent court filing.

Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist, was shot and killed on September 10, 2025, while addressing students at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The shocking incident has sent ripples through the community and raised questions about safety on campus.

Tyler Robinson, 22, has been charged with aggravated murder in connection with Kirk’s death. Prosecutors assert that DNA evidence links Robinson to the crime, claiming they possess sufficient evidence to proceed with a trial.

Robinson allegedly used a Mauser 98 rifle in the shooting, a common bolt-action firearm. However, a bullet found during Kirk’s autopsy has not been conclusively linked to the rifle discovered near the scene.

Defense attorneys emphasized that the analysis from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) could not definitively connect the bullet fragment to Robinson’s rifle. They have requested a delay of at least six months for the preliminary hearing to thoroughly review the evidence, which includes 600,000 files received by the defense team.

Among the evidence are 31 hours of audio and 700 hours of video, which the defense claims will take at least 60 days to analyze. Additionally, three unfired bullets were found with the rifle.

Robinson reportedly communicated with his romantic partner, expressing that he targeted Kirk due to his “hatred.” This revelation has intensified the scrutiny surrounding the case.

As the investigation unfolds, the FBI is conducting further bullet analysis tests, adding another layer of complexity to the proceedings. Robinson is scheduled to return to court on April 17 for a hearing regarding a defense motion to ban cameras from the courtroom.

Details remain unconfirmed as the legal battle continues, and the community watches closely for updates on this high-profile case.