Utah prosecutors present key testimony from the suspect’s roommate as the court hears fresh evidence in the murder trial of conservative leader Charlie Kirk.
July 10, 2026: Prosecutors in Utah presented crucial evidence in the murder trial of conservative youth leader Charlie Kirk by playing portions of an interview with the suspect’s roommate, Lance Twiggs. Kirk, a close ally of US President Donald Trump, was shot outside Utah Valley University last year while addressing a large gathering of students. The accused, Tyler R., faces seven criminal charges, including aggravated murder, and prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. He has not yet entered a plea.
Twiggs, who was granted immunity in exchange for cooperating with investigators, told authorities that Tyler R. had confessed his plan to kill Kirk in a note and later admitted carrying out the shooting. According to prosecutors, the suspect also sent text messages claiming he targeted Kirk because he “had enough of his hatred.” During a recorded interview played in court, Twiggs said Tyler R. returned home after the incident, admitted the killing in person, and expressed regret while breaking down emotionally. Parts of the interview were withheld after the defence argued they could unfairly influence the jury.
Charlie Kirk’s parents, his widow Erika Kirk, and Utah Senator Mike Lee attended the hearing. Lawyers representing the media and Kirk’s family urged the court to make the interview and other evidence public in the interest of transparency. However, the judge rejected the request, stating that while the case is of significant public interest, both the rights of the victims’ family and the defendant must be protected throughout the legal process.