Tyler Robinson confessed to roommate he killed Charlie Kirk, court hears

A Utah court hearing concerning the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk entered its fourth day on Thursday, 9 July 2026. The proceedings, held at the Fourth District Courthouse in Provo, focus on the state's case against Tyler Robinson, who is accused of aggravated murder following a shooting at Utah Valley University on 10 September 2025.

Prosecutors presented evidence including an investigative interview with Lance Twiggs, who was Robinson’s roommate and romantic partner. In recordings played for the court, Twiggs described Robinson returning to their apartment in St George after the shooting. Twiggs stated that he asked the defendant if his involvement in the attack was true, to which Robinson reportedly confirmed his role. According to the interview, Robinson then became emotional, pacing the apartment and expressing that he wished he had not committed the act.

Media additions

The prosecution also detailed digital evidence, including text messages exchanged between the two men. When Twiggs asked Robinson if he was responsible for the shooting, Robinson replied that he was and expressed remorse. Regarding his motivation, prosecutors presented evidence that Robinson messaged his roommate stating he had grown weary of the activist's hatred. Additionally, a note allegedly written by Robinson was presented to the court, in which the defendant claimed he had the opportunity to target Kirk and intended to proceed.

The court reviewed further digital evidence, including messages posted on the Discord platform and texts discussing the concealment of a rifle. Authorities allege that Robinson used a rifle belonging to his grandfather to commit the shooting. The weapon was reportedly found wrapped in a towel in a wooded area near the university, alongside ammunition that featured inscriptions. During the presentation of these details, Robinson reportedly furrowed his brow and smirked.

The hearing has involved ongoing conflict regarding public transparency. Defense attorney Michael Burt argued that the public release of investigative materials could prejudice the defendant’s right to a fair trial, suggesting that the court should prioritize the determination of probable cause. Conversely, attorneys for the victim's widow, Erika Kirk, and media representatives pushed for greater access.

"To not be transparent, to not be open and let the world see what happened will create doubt and distrust in the judicial system."

Jeffrey Neiman, attorney for the Kirk family, via Court proceedings

District Judge Tony Graf ruled that portions of the video and text evidence could be released, though some segments remained redacted or restricted to courtroom viewing only.

Forensic evidence has also faced scrutiny. Prosecutors submitted an FBI report identifying DNA samples from Robinson and Twiggs on a rifle, a towel, and a screwdriver recovered near the scene in Orem. Defense counsel challenged the analyst’s conclusions and the reliability of the testing protocols. In response to these challenges, forensic expert Lawrence Quarino testified that law enforcement agencies use reliable testing methods.

Robinson has not yet entered a formal plea. Prosecutors are pursuing the death penalty, citing the danger posed to the crowd at the university event and alleged political motivations. The defendant sat in the courtroom on Thursday wearing a jacket and tie, with one arm shackled to his waist.

What to watch next

• Judicial Decision: Judge Tony Graf is expected to determine at the conclusion of this week's hearing whether the state has presented sufficient evidence to establish probable cause for a full trial.
• Defense Motions: Legal counsel for Robinson continues to challenge the admissibility of state exhibits and seeks to remove the possibility of the death penalty.
• Transparency Procedures: The court must continue to balance the defense's concerns regarding public prejudice against requests for open access to evidence from the victim's family and media outlets.