A recording played in a Utah court revealed that the man accused of killing Charlie Kirk expressed regret to his roommate the day after the conservative activist was shot dead. Tyler Robinson, 23, appeared in court for the fourth day of a preliminary hearing to determine if there is enough evidence to proceed to trial. Robinson faces charges of aggravated murder but has not entered a plea.
Charlie Kirk, a key supporter of former President Donald Trump known for rallying young Republican voters in the 2024 election, was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University on September 10. Robinson surrendered to authorities the following day.
During the hearing, prosecutors presented a recorded interview with Robinson’s former roommate and partner, Lance Twiggs, who spoke to investigators in April. Robinson’s defense had objected to the release of Twiggs’ statements, arguing they could be misconstrued as a confession, potentially impacting Robinson’s right to a fair trial.
Prosecutors claim Robinson left a note for Twiggs confessing his intent to harm Charlie Kirk, stating, “I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I’m going to take it.” Additionally, Robinson allegedly sent a text to Twiggs indicating he targeted Kirk due to his perceived animosity.
Before turning himself in, Robinson purportedly posted a message on a messaging platform linking himself to the incident. Twiggs, who provided crucial information to investigators, received immunity for his statements to prevent their use against him in any legal proceedings.
Judge Tony Graf is expected to decide at the hearing’s conclusion whether there is adequate evidence for the case to proceed to trial. Robinson’s legal team has not addressed his guilt or innocence but has requested the exclusion of the death penalty.
The media and Kirk’s widow, Erika, who attended the hearing, have urged for the disclosure of Twiggs’ statements and other evidence. Kirk’s family attorney emphasized the importance of transparency in the legal process to maintain trust in the judicial system.
Despite requests for open and real-time display of evidence during the hearing, Judge Graf emphasized the need to balance the rights of the victim’s family and the defendant, indicating that not all evidence would be publicly presented.