Preliminary hearing draws crowds outside Utah courthouse for man charged with killing Charlie Kirk

Spectators have camped outside a Utah courthouse each night this week hoping to secure one of 14 public seats for the preliminary hearing of the man charged with killing Charlie Kirk. The hearing for Tyler Robinson has drawn national and international attention, with media outlets providing livestream coverage and daily updates.

Court staff distribute wristbands each morning on a first-come, first-served basis.

Court security measures A court security director told people waiting outside Thursday morning that tents and other camping supplies are no longer permitted on courthouse steps. Staff also warned that wristbands had been labeled after some people attempted to use duplicates to gain entry.

Inside the courtroom, spectators must follow additional rules to avoid making others feel they are under observation, the security director said.

Interest in testimony and evidence One person in line said being present allows viewers to observe facial expressions and emotions not visible on public video feeds. m. one day and still placed eighth in line because proceedings began in the afternoon.

Attorneys spent part of Wednesday arguing over whether a recorded interview with Robinson's roommate and romantic partner would be released publicly. The hearing is expected to end Friday, after which State District Judge Tony Graf will determine if prosecutors have presented sufficient evidence for trial.