Lawyers representing Tyler Robinson, the man accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, have asked to postpone a preliminary hearing scheduled for May, saying they need more time to review a large amount of evidence, including bullet analysis, that may support their defense, the Associated Press reports.
Tyler Robinson’s defense team said in recent court filings that an analysis by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives could not definitively link a bullet fragment found during an autopsy to a rifle discovered near the crime scene.
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The AP further reported that the FBI is conducting additional tests, according to court documents.
The agency’s report has not been made public, but lawyers have referenced parts of it in court filings, suggesting the findings were inconclusive.
Forensic ballistics analysis often depends on the size and condition of the bullet fragments found. Experts examine the tiny, unique marks left on the bullet as it passes through the gun barrel. These markings act like fingerprints because no two firearms produce the exact same pattern, the AP reported.
The defense said in its motion that it may try to use analysis to exonerate Robinson during a preliminary hearing while prosecutors try to show they have enough evidence against him to go forward with the trial, the AP reported.
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Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty for Robinson, 22, who is charged with aggravated murder in the Sept. 10 shooting of a conservative activist on the campus of Utah Valley University in Orem. Robinson has yet to file a lawsuit.
Prosecutors said DNA matching Robinson’s was found on the trigger of the rifle, a fired shell casing and two unfired shell casings. Defense attorneys note that forensic reports indicate that more than one person’s DNA was found on some of the items, which they say requires more complex analysis.
Robinson allegedly texted his romantic partner that he targeted Kirk because he was “fed up with his hate,” prosecutors said.
Tyler Robinson is due back in court on April 17 for a hearing on a defense motion to ban courtroom cameras.
Earlier on March 12 (local time), when Robinson was back in court, a judge denied some of his lawyers’ requests to limit public access to court records, leaving open the possibility of closing parts of future proceedings.
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At a hearing in April, during which Tyler Robinson’s lawyers will argue to keep television cameras, microphones and photographers out of the courtroom.
Robinson’s defense team also said the April 17 hearing will include discussions of pretrial publicity, such as evidence not yet admitted, personal opinions about guilt or public statements that would otherwise be inadmissible in court. Defense attorney Michael Burt said the open trial could end up “striking another blow” to Robinson’s rights, according to the AP.
(With input from agencies)
