Charlie Kirk hearing begins

The man accused of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk will appear in court today for a weeklong preliminary hearing, and it’ll likely be one of the most closely watched court proceedings the nation has seen in years.

• A quick refresher: Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA and a close ally of President Donald Trump, was shot and killed at a speaking event at Utah Valley University last September. The man accused of carrying out the attack, Tyler Robinson, later surrendered to police after a 33-hour manhunt. [Utah News Dispatch]
• What will this hearing decide? There won’t be a jury or verdict yet. Prosecutors will try to convince the judge there’s enough evidence for the case to move to trial. [Salt Lake Tribune]
• Maximum security: Kirk’s widow, Erika, and his parents are expected to attend. Court officials are preparing for heightened security, including an armored transport for Robinson, as the hearing is expected to draw intense public attention. [KUTV]
• Cameras will be allowed. Attorneys have sparred over public access, but the judge approved livestreaming and news cameras and barred most spectators and reporters from bringing phones or laptops into the courtroom. [KUTV, Utah News Dispatch]
• The death penalty is still in play: A judge denied the defense’s request to block prosecutors from seeking the death penalty. [City Cast Salt Lake 🎧]

New Alzheimer’s Research Out of Utah

Researchers at the University of Utah have identified a brain protein that appears to help Alzheimer’s disease spread from one brain cell to another in mice. The discovery could eventually lead to treatments that slow the disease’s progression, though research is still in its early stages. [University of Utah]

Hollywood in SLC

Jessica Alba was spotted filming a movie in downtown Salt Lake City last week. [Reddit]

• The film is seemingly based in Europe: which just further proves our Euro summer in Salt Lake argument. [City Cast Salt Lake 🎧]

Our Shrinking Reservoirs

Utah reservoirs are sitting at just 64% capacity, well below normal for this time of year, as drought conditions continue to strain water supplies. [Utah Department of Natural Resources]

The Temple Is Earthquake Ready

The Salt Lake Temple is now resting on its new earthquake-resistant foundation after six years under construction, and it’s still on track to reopen for public tours in 2027. [KSL]

Utah Specialty Plates Now in Full Color

Utah’s special license plates got a colorful redesign, with updated full-plate artwork. Which one’s your favorite? [KUER]

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