Hearing Update on Tyler Robinson Case

In a recent preliminary hearing in Provo, Utah, state District Judge Tony Graf decided that a recorded interview with Lance Twiggs, who was both a former roommate and romantic partner of Tyler Robinson, can be presented in court, though with some edits.

This video reportedly includes statements made by Robinson, who stands accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, as well as text messages allegedly sent to Twiggs. The situation is complex, as emotions run high.

Richard Novak, Robinson’s defense attorney, raised strong objections to the decision to air this video in public, claiming that prosecutors may portray the content as confessions, which could unfairly sway the opinions of potential jurors.

Despite these concerns, Judge Graf dismissed the request to close the courtroom to the public or to prevent the video’s showing altogether. Instead, he instructed that certain segments be edited out and cut prior to its broadcast.

Interestingly, Judge Graf indicated that he would review the unedited version of the recording privately. This would help him assess whether there was sufficient probable cause to advance the case to a full trial.

On the same day, State Bureau of Investigation Agent Brian Davis provided testimony about Lance Twiggs, noting that he had undergone two interviews during the ongoing investigation. It’s worth mentioning that Twiggs was granted immunity, meaning that his statements cannot be used against him in future legal matters.

Before Judge Graf made his ruling, another witness took the stand—Amanda Bakker, an FBI forensic DNA analyst. She presented findings indicating that DNA matching Robinson’s was found on a towel that was wrapped around the suspected murder weapon, discovered near Utah Valley University, where the incident unfolded.

Authorities had previously disclosed text messages in which Robinson seemingly admitted to Kirk’s murder on September 10, 2025, at the university.