Key Immunity Deal
Accused Shooter's Partner Gets Limited Immunity for Key Testimony in Kirk Murder Case
Key Points
Court papers say Twiggs’ April 20, 2026 interview was conducted “under oath” and only after “an admonition that any false statement would be punishable by law and could be charged as obstruction of justice,” in addition to the “use-immunity” deal.
Prosecutors identified the proceedings as a preliminary hearing before Utah Judge Tony Graf, describing that they planned to present Twiggs’ recorded statement and related messaging evidence there.
Reporting tied to the filings notes the hearing could be “multi-day,” and described Twiggs (22) as Robinson’s “roommate and flame,” framing his testimony as potentially significant for the next stage of the case.
An additional detail reported by NewsNation’s Brian Entin said the “limited” nature of Twiggs’ immunity “leaves options open for prosecutor,” indicating the deal may not fully insulate Twiggs from all downstream uses or strategy.
Separately from the immunity filings, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said a family friend reported Robinson after the Sept. 10, 2025 Utah Valley University shooting, including that Robinson “had become more political in recent years” and once expressed he “did not like” Kirk.
Lance Twiggs, the transgender romantic partner of accused shooter Tyler Robinson, has been granted limited "use-immunity" for a recorded statement he gave prosecutors on April 20, 2026, court filings reveal. Prosecutors plan to use that sworn statement — along with digital messages between Twiggs and Robinson — at a multi-day preliminary hearing scheduled for July 6, NewsNation reported.
Robinson, 23, is charged with aggravated murder and six other counts in the September 10, 2025 sniper killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Prosecutors announced they will seek the death penalty, Daily Caller reported.
What Twiggs Told Prosecutors Under Oath
Twiggs gave his April 20 statement under oath, after being warned that any false statement could be charged as obstruction of justice, according to Radar Online. In that interview, Twiggs allegedly confirmed what Robinson had told him earlier — that Robinson admitted to the shooting, hid the gun, discarded his clothes, and urged Twiggs not to speak with law enforcement.
Prosecutors described the immunity deal as meaning Twiggs' April statements "could not be used against him," Yahoo News reported. But that protection covers only Twiggs. The same statements and digital messages can still be used as evidence against Robinson in his criminal case.
"Limited" Immunity Keeps Prosecutors' Options Open
NewsNation's Brian Entin noted that the "limited" nature of the immunity deal "leaves options open for prosecutors." Use-immunity — a legal tool under Utah Code § 77-22b-1 — shields Twiggs only from having his own compelled statements used against him. It does not protect him from perjury or obstruction charges if his account proves false.
On June 16, prosecutors filed an opposition to a defense attempt to force Twiggs to testify live at the July hearing. They argued it was unnecessary because they already had his recorded statement plus screenshots and text communications, NY Post reported.
Digital Messages Reconstruct the Hours After the Shooting
Prosecutors say Twiggs' messages with Robinson around the time of the September 10 shooting are a key piece of their case. Those communications allegedly show Robinson admitting involvement, describing how he hid the rifle, ditched his clothes, and telling Twiggs to stay quiet, according to Daily Caller.
Robinson allegedly fired a single sniper round from a Mauser Model 98 bolt-action rifle at a distance of roughly 142 yards, striking Kirk in the neck as he addressed a crowd of approximately 3,000 people. Robinson surrendered to a local sheriff about 24 hours later after his parents recognized him in news footage, NewsNation reported.
Family Friend Flagged Robinson's Radicalization Before the Shooting
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said a family friend reported Robinson to authorities after the shooting. That friend told investigators Robinson "had become more political in recent years" and once said he "did not like" Kirk, according to NY Post.
Robinson had no prior criminal record and was described by former acquaintances as a "straight-A student" from Washington, Utah. He and Twiggs shared a townhouse rented for $1,800 per month, Radar Online reported. The July preliminary hearing will determine whether the prosecution's evidence — including Twiggs' recorded statement — is strong enough to send the case to trial.
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