During an investigation into the assassination of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, authorities found crucial evidence. A towel and a screwdriver contained DNA linking suspect Tyler Robinson and his former roommate, Lance Twiggs, to the crime scene.
Robinson, 23, is accused of killing the 31-year-old Kirk during a Turning Point USA event on September 10, 2025. Evidence suggests Robinson used the towel to conceal the suspected murder weapon, which was a retrofitted Mauser 98 bolt-action rifle capable of firing .30-06 rounds, matching bullet fragments from Kirk’s autopsy.
Charlie Kirk was assassinated at Utah Valley University on September 10 during an outdoor event.
It’s unclear why a screwdriver was found near Robinson’s alleged sniper position overlooking the event. Both Robinson and Twiggs provided DNA samples, which investigators used to establish their profiles.
Robinson’s preliminary hearing commenced on Monday, focusing on prosecutors establishing probable cause to proceed with charges, including aggravated murder. This charge could incur the death penalty. Prosecutors presented surveillance footage showing Robinson’s movements around the campus and his Dodge Challenger.
At Tuesday’s hearing, Sgt. Jennifer Faumuina from the State Bureau of Investigations described how her team processed the crime scene. A screwdriver was recovered from the roof of the Losee Center, where Robinson allegedly fired the fatal shot. The towel and rifle discovered nearby also tied Robinson and Twiggs to the crime.
A handwritten note and messages allegedly show Robinson confessing the crime to Twiggs, who lived with him and is currently cooperating with authorities. Despite DNA evidence implicating Twiggs, he faces no charges; instead, this evidence bolsters the case against Robinson.
In court, FBI forensic analyst Amanda Bakker suggested Robinson was likely the major DNA contributor on the towel and screwdriver, with Twiggs as the minor contributor. Defense attorney Michael Burt’s questioning of Bakker was challenged by prosecutor Ryan McBride for exceeding probable cause scope, with the court ultimately intervening.
As these discussions continued, Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, and other observers followed attentively. Although Robinson has yet to enter a plea, the hearing’s outcome could lead to him doing so depending on the probable cause ruling.
Legal expert Randolph Rice expressed that the prosecution is likely to secure this step. A conviction would bring Robinson closer to facing trial on grave charges surrounding Kirk’s death.