The family of Charlie Kirk is bracing for an emotionally difficult week as his widow, Erika Kirk, prepares to attend a key court hearing where prosecutors are expected to present graphic evidence in the murder case against accused gunman Tyler Robinson.

A source familiar with the case said the upcoming five-day preliminary hearing in Provo, Utah, is expected to be especially painful for Kirk’s relatives and close friends, many of whom plan to be present in the courtroom.

“It’s going to be a tough week on everybody,” a source familiar with the situation said of Charlie’s family and friends planning to attend Tyler Robinson’s five-day evidence hearing in Provo, Utah.

According to the source, prosecutors are expected to introduce disturbing material during the proceedings, giving family members the option to step outside if they choose.

“There is going to be evidence presented which the family may choose to leave the courtroom for,” the source said. “That’s their prerogative. They are going to make those decisions when in court.”

In Utah, a preliminary hearing allows prosecutors to present the evidence supporting their case so a judge can determine whether sufficient probable cause exists to move forward with a trial. The hearing serves as the state’s alternative to seeking a grand jury indictment.

Among the evidence expected to be presented before Judge Tony Graf are graphic videos of the fatal shooting, along with autopsy-related evidence. The hearing began Monday.

It remains uncertain whether photographs of Kirk’s body will be shown during the proceedings.

Attorneys for both the prosecution and defense have agreed to alert Kirk’s family before especially graphic evidence is displayed, allowing them to leave the courtroom if they wish.

Robinson, 23, is accused of fatally shooting the 31-year-old Kirk from a distance as he addressed a crowd of thousands at Utah Valley University in Orem on September 10.

Prosecutors allege Robinson later confessed to the killing in messages exchanged with his transgender partner, Lance Twiggs. Those communications are expected to be introduced as evidence during the hearing.

The prosecution is also expected to present a recorded interview conducted with Twiggs as part of its case.

Twiggs, 22, who previously shared a residence with Robinson, met with prosecutors on April 20 to discuss the defendant and his alleged actions.

Earlier this year, Twiggs was seen staying with relatives in Texas. Prosecutors granted him limited immunity in exchange for his cooperation during the interview.

If Robinson is convicted, he could face the death penalty. He has not yet entered a plea to the charges.

{Matzav.com}