PROVO — A five-day preliminary hearing for Tyler Robinson, charged with aggravated murder in the killing of Charlie Kirk, began Monday in Provo, Utah. State District Judge Tony Graf will determine if there is enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial, where prosecutors aim to seek the death penalty.

Charlie Kirk was shot on September 10 at Utah Valley University. Robinson, 23, turned himself in a day after the shooting and has not yet entered a plea. His attorneys have sought to have the death penalty removed from the case without success.

Prosecutors allege Robinson sent a text message to his roommate indicating he targeted Kirk because he "had enough of his hatred." They also claim Robinson left a note for his roommate stating, "I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I'm going to take it." The roommate is not expected to testify in person during the hearing, though prosecutors are permitted to use hearsay.

Prosecutors plan to present DNA evidence linking the defendant to what is believed to be the murder weapon. They will also introduce investigator testimony, autopsy findings, witness statements, and video footage of the killing. Prosecutors are expected to argue that the shooting endangered others at the campus event, which is an aggravating circumstance under Utah law that could make the crime punishable by death.

Kirk's parents, Robert and Kathryn Kirk, and his widow, Erika Kirk, are expected to attend the proceedings throughout the week. This hearing marks the first time Kirk's family will be in the courtroom with Robinson. Erika Kirk stated during Charlie Kirk's memorial service that she forgives Robinson. Charlie Kirk co-founded the organization Turning Point USA.