Prosecutors have introduced startling new forensic details in a Provo courtroom this week, reportedly linking genetic material from a second individual to key evidence in the alleged assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. The revelation emerged during the second day of the preliminary hearing for Tyler Robinson, who stands accused of the September 10, 2025 shooting at Utah Valley University.
"Male DNA was obtained from item 7-1. Item 7-1 was interpreted as originating from two individuals, one of whom is Twiggs." — Sergeant Jennifer Faumina, Utah Department of Public Safety
Charlie Kirk, a prominent figure in conservative youth activism and the founder of Turning Point USA, was reportedly shot while addressing a crowd at an event on the university campus. The incident garnered significant national attention and sent shockwaves through the political landscape. Tyler Robinson faces serious charges, including aggravated murder and several other felony counts. Prosecutors have confirmed their intention to seek the death penalty if Robinson is convicted. The ongoing preliminary hearing aims to determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed to a full trial.
During Tuesday's proceedings, Utah Department of Public Safety Sergeant Jennifer Faumina, who was involved with the State Bureau of Investigation when the shooting occurred, delivered testimony based on an official forensic report. From the witness stand, Sgt. Faumina read directly from the report, stating, "Male DNA was obtained from item 7-1. Item 7-1 was interpreted as originating from two individuals, one of whom is Twiggs." She provided a nearly identical finding for a second piece of evidence, testifying, "Male DNA was obtained from item eight sub one. Item eight sub one was interpreted as originating from two individuals, one of whom is Twiggs." Court officials confirmed that these two exhibits corresponded to a screwdriver recovered from atop the Losee Center for Student Success and a towel that investigators believe had been wrapped around the rifle used in the attack. These two items are central to the prosecution's theory of how the shooting was carried out.
Further supporting details regarding the genetic evidence were offered by Amanda Bakker, a forensic analyst with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Her findings reportedly tied both the accused, Robinson, and Twiggs to the towel discovered near the alleged murder weapon. While Twiggs, identified in court only by his surname, has not been charged with any crime, his name has become increasingly prominent throughout the preliminary hearing, appearing repeatedly in both physical evidence and witness testimony. Prosecutors also allege that Robinson sent Twiggs a written confession in the aftermath of the shooting, a claim that is expected to be explored further as the hearing continues. Court officials have indicated that a previously recorded statement from Twiggs will be played for the court at some point during the weeklong hearing, potentially offering additional insight into his connection to the case.
Testimony regarding the discovery of the screwdriver was provided by Officer Chris Bagley, who served on the Utah Valley University police force at the time of the shooting. Bagley testified that he physically located the tool on the same rooftop where prosecutors allege the fatal shot was fired. He also pointed investigators to indentations pressed into the gravel on the roof, describing these marks as resembling a "sniper’s pad." According to Bagley’s testimony, these impressions appeared to match the shape of a person positioned flat on the ground in a prone stance, a detail prosecutors say supports their theory of a planned, elevated attack. The rooftop itself, prosecutors highlighted during the hearing, offered a direct and unobstructed sightline down to the area where Kirk stood addressing the crowd at the Turning Point USA event.
Jurors were also shown surveillance footage that prosecutors contend documents Robinson’s path across campus in the hours surrounding the shooting, including video allegedly showing him positioned on the Losee Center roof. Additional footage cited by the state reportedly captured a vehicle linked to Robinson departing campus grounds shortly after the attack took place.
Attorneys representing Robinson have begun to challenge the strength of the DNA findings, casting doubt on their reliability as the defense mounts its response to the state’s case. Robinson himself has not yet entered a plea.
The latest round of DNA testimony, formally linking Twiggs’ genetic profile to both the alleged murder weapon and the rooftop location believed to be the shooter’s perch, represents one of the most significant developments so far in the case. Proceedings are expected to resume throughout the week as prosecutors continue presenting forensic and eyewitness evidence against Robinson in the ongoing preliminary hearing.
