Tyler Robinson, the man charged with murder in the death of 21-year-old Charlie Kirk, allegedly told his roommate that he "wishes he hadn't done it," according to testimony during a preliminary hearing on Thursday.
The disclosure came as prosecutors laid out their case against Robinson, 22, who has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with Kirk's death. The preliminary hearing in Riverside County Superior Court is designed to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to bind the case over for trial.
Lance Twiggs, Robinson's roommate, took the stand and described conversations he had with Robinson following Kirk's disappearance. According to Twiggs' testimony, Robinson made the damning admission during a discussion about the investigation.
Background
Charlie Kirk was reported missing in late June after failing to return home from a gathering in the Riverside area. Family members told investigators they became concerned when Kirk stopped responding to calls and texts. His vehicle was later found abandoned near a rural road approximately 15 miles from his last known location.
Riverside County Sheriff's Department detectives launched an extensive search, utilizing aerial units and dive teams to comb nearby waterways and wooded areas. The investigation took a critical turn when authorities identified Robinson as a person of interest through cell phone tower data and witness interviews.
Kirk's body was discovered three days after he was reported missing, partially submerged in a drainage canal approximately 20 miles from where his vehicle was recovered. The Riverside County Coroner's Office determined the cause of death as blunt force trauma to the head.
The Investigation
Detectives executed a search warrant at Robinson's residence, where they reportedly found evidence linking him to Kirk's disappearance, including clothing that matched descriptions provided by witnesses and digital devices now being analyzed by forensic specialists.
Robinson was arrested without incident at his apartment on charges of first-degree murder. He has remained in custody without bail since his arrest. His defense attorney entered a not guilty plea on his behalf during an earlier court appearance.
Sheriff's officials revealed that Robinson and Kirk knew each other prior to the incident, though they have not disclosed the nature of their relationship or a potential motive. Detectives are continuing to examine digital evidence and interview additional witnesses as the investigation progresses.
Key Takeaways
- Tyler Robinson has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of Charlie Kirk, 21
- Roommate Lance Twiggs testified that Robinson said he "wishes he hadn't done it"
- Kirk's body was found three days after his disappearance in a drainage canal
- The preliminary hearing will determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial
- Detectives say Robinson and Kirk had a prior relationship, though the nature remains undisclosed
What's Next
Robinson is expected to remain in custody without bail as the case moves forward. A date for the preliminary hearing's continuation has not yet been scheduled, according to court officials.
Prosecutors have indicated they anticipate presenting additional witnesses during the next phase of proceedings, including potential forensic experts who analyzed evidence recovered from Robinson's residence and Kirk's vehicle.
A full trial date would be set only if the case survives the preliminary hearing phase. The defense has reserved the right to challenge the admissibility of certain evidence during upcoming motions hearings.