PROVO, Utah — The man accused of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk told his roommate he “wishes he hadn’t done it” the day after the killing, according to a recorded interview played in a Utah courtroom as prosecutors sought to persuade a judge that the case should proceed to trial.
The recording, presented during a preliminary hearing on Thursday, featured Lance Twiggs, Robinson’s former roommate and romantic partner, describing a conversation that occurred after the Sept. 10, 2025, shooting at Utah Valley University. Twiggs told investigators Robinson became emotional, cried briefly and said he regretted what had happened before discussing the possibility of surrendering to authorities.
Tyler Robinson, 23, is charged with aggravated murder in Kirk’s death. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty and contend the shooting was politically motivated. Robinson has not entered a plea, and the court is determining whether prosecutors have presented sufficient evidence for the case to move to trial.
Prosecutors also presented text messages they said Robinson sent to Twiggs on the night of the shooting. According to the evidence read in court, Robinson acknowledged responsibility for the killing and later told Twiggs he intended to turn himself in. Investigators testified Robinson surrendered to law enforcement later the following day.
During the hearing, prosecutors argued the statements, together with other evidence including online messages, surveillance footage and forensic findings, support the aggravated murder charge. They allege Robinson targeted Kirk because of his political views and point to messages in which Robinson reportedly said he had “had enough” of Kirk’s “hatred.”
Defense attorneys challenged key elements of the prosecution’s case, questioning the reliability of DNA and ballistic evidence and arguing investigators failed to adequately pursue alternative leads. They also opposed the public release of portions of Twiggs’ recorded statements, contending widespread dissemination could prejudice Robinson’s right to a fair trial.
Twiggs testified under an immunity agreement with prosecutors. Portions of his interview and other evidence shown in court were redacted after the judge weighed requests from both sides over what should be made public.
Judge Tony Graf is expected to decide after receiving additional written arguments whether prosecutors have established probable cause for the case to proceed. A ruling is anticipated later this year.
