Judge Denies Defense Subpoena and Hearsay Challenge in Kirk Murder Case

A Utah judge on Monday denied a defense motion to subpoena Lance Twiggs to testify in person at the July 6 preliminary hearing in the case against Tyler Robinson. @NBCNews reported that Judge Tony Graf Jr. granted prosecutors' motion to quash the subpoena.

Twiggs lived with Robinson as a romantic partner at the time of the alleged murder. " Prosecutors plan to introduce a recorded interview in which Twiggs allegedly told investigators that Robinson confessed to the crime, concealed a weapon, disposed of clothing, and instructed Twiggs not to contact law enforcement, @NBCNews reported.

They also intend to use a handwritten note from Robinson to Twiggs along with text messages and other evidence.

Graf denied the defense motion to bar prosecutors from using hearsay to establish probable cause. He stated that the Utah constitution permits reliable hearsay for this purpose at a preliminary hearing, which is not a trial and does not determine guilt or innocence. Robinson, 23, is charged with felony aggravated murder and other felonies in the Sept.

10, 2025, shooting death of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty if Robinson is convicted. Robinson turned himself in the day after the killing and has not entered a plea.

The next court date is Friday morning. Defense attorneys have expressed interest in subpoenaing seven forensic witnesses. Graf ruled that no electronics will be allowed in the courtroom during the July hearing.

Prosecutors have said DNA consistent with Robinson was found on the rifle trigger, a fired cartridge casing, and two unfired cartridges, while forensic reports indicate multiple people's DNA on some items.