Preliminary hearing opens in Utah murder case of conservative activist

They said the footage showed the defendant on the Utah Valley University campus four times on the day of the shooting, including hours after the incident.

Evidence presented in court A former university officer testified that he found disturbed gravel and markings on a rooftop overlooking the speaking area, which he described as consistent with a prone shooting position. Prosecutors also played home surveillance video from a nearby neighborhood showing a gray Dodge vehicle arriving and departing around the time of the shooting.

The defendant, who turned himself in the day after the incident, has not entered a plea. His lawyers questioned the identification process and campus security measures but have not addressed guilt.

Family statement and attendance The victim's widow and family attended the hearing for the first time and issued a statement describing the proceedings as painful reminders of the loss. They thanked supporters for prayers and asked for privacy. The widow had previously spoken at a memorial service about forgiveness toward the accused.

" — Family statement, July 6, 2026 (BBC News) The hearing is scheduled to continue through Friday, with additional witnesses expected to testify.