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Akey piece of forensic evidence in the killing of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk may not link the accused gunman to the crime, according to a new court filing that could reshape the high-profile capital murder case.
Attorneys for Tyler Robinson, 22, say federal firearm analysts were unable to match the bullet recovered during Kirk's autopsy to the rifle prosecutors allege was used in the September 10 shooting at Utah Valley University.
The defense stated that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives could not identify the projectile as having been fired from Robinson's weapon - evidence attorneys argue may be exculpatory.
Robinson faces capital murder charges and a potential death sentence if convicted.
Defense lawyers said they may call the federal firearms analyst to testify and have requested a delay of at least six months to review forensic material and prepare expert analysis.
DNA evidence and media scrutiny complicate proceedings
The filing also highlights unresolved forensic questions involving DNA evidence reviewed by both the Federal Bureau of Investigation and ATF.
Attorneys say multiple DNA contributors were reportedly found on certain items, requiring extensive examination by outside specialists, including geneticists and statisticians.
According to the motion, prosecutors have turned over roughly 20,000 digital files - including audio recordings, videos and documents - that defense attorneys say will require hundreds of hours to analyze.
The defense argues it has not yet received all forensic case data needed to properly evaluate the scientific evidence expected at the preliminary hearing.
Robinson's trial remains at the center of national attention
Robinson is scheduled to return to court April 17, when attorneys will also argue over whether cameras and microphones should be allowed in the courtroom.
The case has drawn national attention, amplified by public comments from President Donald Trump shortly after Robinson's arrest expressing hope that the suspect would receive the death penalty - remarks the defense says contributed to prejudicial media coverage.
Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, has called for transparency in the proceedings and publicly stated she forgives Robinson for the alleged killing.
With ballistic evidence now under dispute, the case may hinge increasingly on forensic interpretation as both sides prepare for a closely watched courtroom battle.