Tyler Robinson’s roommate granted immunity in exchange for recorded statements in Charlie Kirk case

PROVO, UTAH: A major new detail emerged in the ongoing case surrounding the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, as prosecutors revealed that Tyler Robinson's roommate was granted immunity in exchange for recorded statements provided to investigators.

During Robinson's preliminary hearing on Wednesday, July 8, prosecutors disclosed that Lance Twiggs, who shared an apartment with Robinson at the time of the shooting, received what investigators described as "use immunity" for statements he made during interviews connected to the case.

Prosecutors reveal immunity agreement with Lance Twiggs

State Bureau of Investigation Agent Brian Davis testified that Twiggs was granted use immunity, meaning prosecutors agreed not to use his statements against him in a criminal case.

According to Davis, Twiggs' April 20 interview was conducted and recorded instead of having him testify in person during the preliminary hearing.

Deputy Utah County Attorney Lauren Hunt told the court she anticipated objections from Robinson's defense team regarding the introduction of the recorded statements.

Hunt also argued that the defense sought several redactions at the last minute, making the process more complicated.

Following discussions between both sides, an edited audio version of Twiggs' interviews is expected to be presented in court after agreed-upon redactions are completed.

Recorded interviews and text messages become focus of hearing

Davis testified that Twiggs was interviewed twice during the investigation. The first interview took place on September 12 and included two FBI agents. 

The second occurred on April 20 with several investigators and prosecutors present.

Court documents filed last year indicate that Robinson allegedly admitted to the shooting in a text conversation with Twiggs on the day of the incident.

According to investigators, Twiggs asked Robinson whether he was responsible for shooting Kirk. Robinson allegedly replied, "I am, I'm sorry."

Authorities also said Twiggs discovered a handwritten note beneath Robinson's computer keyboard in their St George apartment.

According to court filings, the note read: "I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I'm going to take it."

DNA evidence also challenged during proceedings

The hearing also focused on DNA evidence that prosecutors say links Robinson to the suspected weapon.

FBI analyst Amanda Bakker testified that after Twiggs provided a DNA sample, investigators were able to reexamine evidence collected during the case.

The testing reportedly identified DNA from two individuals.

Investigators previously recovered a towel and a bolt-action rifle containing one spent round from a wooded area near where Kirk was shot.

Jennifer Faumuina of the State Bureau of Investigation testified that DNA found on the towel matched Twiggs and another individual who was "very likely" Robinson.

Defense attorneys questioned the reliability of the DNA testing as they challenged key parts of the prosecution's evidence.

Judge Tony Graf is expected to decide after the hearing concludes whether the case against Robinson will move forward to trial.

Robinson, 23, is accused of fatally shooting Kirk on September 10 at Utah Valley University. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty if he is convicted.