One of the most important witnesses in the case may be the person who knew the accused shooter best.

Now prosecutors are taking steps to make sure his statements can be used in court.

WHAT HAPPENED

Prosecutors say 22-year-old Lance Twiggs, the roommate and former romantic partner of accused gunman Tyler Robinson, was granted limited immunity for statements he gave during a recorded interview on April 20.

Twiggs is expected to provide key evidence during a preliminary hearing scheduled for July.

According to court filings, Twiggs told investigators that Robinson admitted to shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk, hid the gun afterward, got rid of his clothes, and told Twiggs not to speak with police.

Prosecutors also say text messages between the two men could be introduced as evidence.

WHAT THE EVIDENCE SHOWS

Lance Twiggs was interviewed by prosecutors on April 20.

• He was granted limited "use immunity" for those statements.
• Prosecutors say he claimed Robinson confessed to the shooting.
• Text messages between Twiggs and Robinson may be used in court.
• A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July.

THE BIGGER QUESTION

How much weight should courts give to testimony from someone so close to the accused?

Roommates, partners, and close friends often have information no one else has. But defense attorneys frequently question whether those witnesses have motives to protect themselves or gain favorable treatment.

That is likely to become a major issue as this case moves forward.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW

The July preliminary hearing will help determine whether prosecutors have enough evidence to move the case toward trial.

If the judge finds sufficient evidence, the case will continue through the criminal court process.

For Kirk's family and supporters, the hearing could provide new details about what investigators believe happened in the hours after the shooting.

WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW

Whether Twiggs will ultimately testify in person.

• What other evidence prosecutors have beyond the statements and texts.
• How the defense plans to challenge Twiggs' account.