In a dramatic courtroom development, text messages purportedly from Tyler Robinson to his romantic partner, Lance Twiggs, were read aloud Thursday, with Erika Kirk, the widow of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, reportedly crying as they were presented. Robinson, 23, faces the death penalty if convicted of murdering Kirk.

During a weeklong evidence hearing, Agent Ryan Davis of the State Bureau of Investigations testified, presenting text messages dated September 10, 2025, the same day Kirk was shot and killed on the Utah Valley University campus. According to the prosecution, the messages indicated Robinson's intent and subsequent confession.

One alleged text from Robinson to Twiggs stated, "I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I'm going to take it." In response to Twiggs' apparent panic and disbelief, Robinson reportedly texted, "I am, I'm sorry."

Prosecutors also presented evidence that Robinson discussed attempting to dispose of the rifle used in the shooting. "If I am able to grab my rifle unseen, I will have left no evidence," one message allegedly read. Robinson also reportedly wrote about difficulty retrieving the weapon due to campus lockdowns, stating, "I had planned to grab my rifle from my drop point shortly after, but most of that side of town got locked down."

Further texts revealed a conversation about Robinson's motive. When Twiggs asked why he committed the act, Robinson allegedly replied, "I had enough of his hatred, some hate cannot be negotiated out."

Twiggs, in a recorded police interview played in court, stated that Robinson confessed to the assassination after returning home the day after Kirk's death. Twiggs recounted Robinson pacing, avoiding questions, and eventually crying, expressing he wished he "had not done it" and that he was going to turn himself in.

Twiggs told investigators that he and Robinson met in 2023 and began a romantic relationship. On the day of the murder, Robinson reportedly left home claiming a long work shift, and Twiggs did not hear from him until late that night. He stated he did not previously discuss Charlie Kirk with Robinson, although Robinson would occasionally rant about Donald Trump. Their discussions about LGBTQ rights were limited to legislation.

Authorities confirmed that Twiggs cooperated with investigators and provided DNA, which, along with Robinson's DNA, was found on a towel wrapped around the murder weapon. Twiggs also confirmed finding a note penned by Robinson, which referred to Twiggs by his chosen name, "Luna." The note allegedly read, "I am likely dead, or facing a lengthy prison sentence. I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and I took it. I don’t know if I will/have succeeded, but I had hoped to make it home to you. I wish we could have lived in a world where this did not feel necessary. I wish I could have stayed for you and lived our lives together."

Robinson has not yet entered a plea, and his attorneys have not commented on the case.