A court in the U.S. state of Utah heard critical DNA evidence in the trial for the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. At the preliminary hearing of defendant Tyler Robinson, prosecutors announced that traces of Robinson's DNA were found on a towel and a screwdriver discovered at the scene.
According to testimony from David Hull of the Utah Department of Public Safety, 23-year-old Robinson allegedly shot Kirk on September 10, 2025, during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University, then wrapped the firearm in a towel and hid it in a wooded area near the campus. Sergeant Jennifer Faumuina of the crime scene investigation unit testified that they found a screwdriver on the roof of the campus's Losee Center, right next to the suspected sniper's position.
Faumuina stated that DNA profiles of two males were found on both the towel and the screwdriver. FBI forensic analyst Amanda Bakker said that the DNA from those samples was mainly Robinson's, with a minor profile belonging to his ex-boyfriend and roommate Lance Twiggs. It was noted that Twiggs is cooperating with investigators and faces no charges.
Murder Weapon and Bullet Match
The court heard that the suspected murder weapon was a Mauser 98 bolt-action rifle modified to fire .30-06 caliber rounds. It was emphasized that the bullet fragments recovered during Kirk's autopsy were consistent with the same caliber.
Handwritten Confession Note
The prosecution alleges that Robinson confessed to the crime in a handwritten note and text messages sent to Twiggs. This evidence is expected to strengthen the case against Robinson.
Courtroom Notes
During the hearing, defense attorney Michael Burt's lengthy cross-examination of DNA analyst Bakker drew objections from prosecutor Ryan McBride. When Judge Tony Graf Jr. asked Burt about the scope of his questioning, the attorney said he had one more question, leading McBride to quip, 'They will stick to that,' drawing laughter in the courtroom.
Kirk's wife, Erika Kirk, was seen shaking her head as DNA charts were presented and listening attentively. Robinson was observed fidgeting in his seat, while one of his family members yawned and Kirk's father took notes from time to time.
Robinson is standing trial on a series of charges, including aggravated murder, and could face the death penalty if convicted. He has not yet entered a plea. Legal experts say the prosecution is expected to easily meet the probable cause standard.
