New evidence was presented during a preliminary hearing in the murder case involving the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Prosecutors played a police interview with the defendant’s roommate and introduced online messages they argue are connected to the case. The defendant, Tyler Robinson, has been charged with aggravated murder and has not entered a plea.
Hearing
During Thursday’s court hearing, prosecutors played portions of a recorded interview with Lance Twiggs, who was both Robinson’s roommate and romantic partner.
According to the recording, Twiggs told investigators that Robinson returned to their apartment the day after the shooting and said “he wishes he hadn’t done it.”
The recording was presented as part of the prosecution’s effort to establish probable cause before trial.
Messages
Prosecutors also introduced messages allegedly posted by Robinson on the social platform Discord.
According to prosecutors, Robinson wrote, “it was me at UVU yesterday” about an hour before surrendering to authorities.
Defense attorneys opposed the public release of the interview and messages, arguing they could be viewed as a confession and affect Robinson’s right to a fair trial.
After hearing arguments from both sides, District Judge Tony Graf allowed a redacted version of the interview to be played in court. Portions of the video and audio remained concealed.
Allegations
Prosecutors allege Robinson also left a note for Twiggs stating, “I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I’m going to take it.”
According to investigators, Robinson also sent a text message saying he targeted Kirk because he “had enough of his hatred.”
During testimony, State Bureau of Investigation Agent Brian Davis described additional messages in which Robinson allegedly discussed concerns about fingerprints on a rifle believed to have been used in the shooting, as well as engravings on ammunition.
These allegations have been presented by prosecutors and have not been proven in court.
Investigation
Investigators allege Robinson went to a rooftop near Utah Valley University, where Charlie Kirk was speaking to a large crowd, and fired a single shot that struck Kirk in the neck.
Kirk was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Authorities later recovered what they believe was the murder weapon, described as a bolt-action rifle with one spent cartridge, wrapped in a towel in a wooded area near the scene.
Court
Robinson has been charged with aggravated murder but has not yet entered a plea.
Judge Graf will determine after the preliminary hearing whether prosecutors have presented enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial.
Robinson’s attorneys have not publicly addressed his guilt or innocence but have sought to remove the possibility of the death penalty.
Twiggs was granted immunity for his statements to investigators, meaning they cannot be used against him in a potential criminal prosecution.
Attendance
Several members of both families attended Thursday’s hearing.
Robinson appeared in court wearing a jacket and tie with one arm restrained while taking notes during the proceedings.
Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, and his parents were present, along with Robinson’s parents and two brothers. Utah Sen. Mike Lee also attended the hearing.
The case remains ongoing, and Robinson is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
FAQs
Who is charged in Charlie Kirk’s killing?
Tyler Robinson has been charged with aggravated murder.
What did the roommate tell investigators?
He said Robinson wished he hadn’t done it.
Has Robinson entered a plea?
No. He has not entered a plea.
What will the judge decide next?
Whether the case will proceed to trial.
Has Robinson been convicted?
No. The case is still pending.
