Evidence presented in the preliminary hearing for Tyler Robinson, accused in the assassination of Charlie Kirk, includes DNA allegedly found on a towel and a screwdriver. Prosecutors contend that DNA belonging to Robinson and his former lover and roommate, Lance Twiggs, was recovered from these items.
Robinson, 23, is accused of fatally shooting Kirk, 31, on September 10, 2025, during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University. A towel was allegedly used by Robinson to conceal the suspected murder weapon in the woods near the university campus. A screwdriver was found near an alleged sniper's perch overlooking the event, according to police testimony.
Authorities obtained DNA samples from both Twiggs and Robinson for comparison. Sgt. Jennifer Faumuina of the State Bureau of Investigations testified that her team processed the scenes at UVU after the shooting. The suspected murder weapon, a Mauser 98 rifle, was found wrapped in a dark towel nearby. Ballistics analysis indicated the rifle had been modified to fire .30-06 rounds, consistent with bullet fragments recovered during Kirk's autopsy. Faumuina stated that DNA from both Robinson and Twiggs was found on the towel and the screwdriver.
During the hearing, FBI forensic analyst Amanda Bakker testified that Robinson is likely the primary DNA donor on both items, with Twiggs identified as a minority contributor. Twiggs, who has not been charged, is cooperating with investigators. Prosecutors have presented handwritten notes and text messages in which Robinson allegedly confessed to the crime to Twiggs.
Prosecutors aim to establish probable cause for the charges against Robinson, which include aggravated murder, a charge that carries the potential for the death penalty. The preliminary hearing is expected to continue throughout the week. Images from surveillance video allegedly show Robinson on campus before and after the shooting, as well as his movements in a Dodge Challenger.
Erika Kirk, Charlie Kirk's widow, and his parents, Robert and Kathryn Kirk, were present in the courtroom during the proceedings. Robinson has not yet entered a plea. The defense attorney, Michael Burt, cross-examined witnesses, including the forensic analyst, leading to objections from the prosecution regarding the scope of questioning.