Tyler Robinson has previously registered as a nonpartisan voter, but according to Utah Governor Spencer Cox, he had “become more political in recent years.” Cox added that Robinson had told a family member he disliked Kirk and mentioned that Kirk was coming to Utah Valley University.

Cox shared that Robinson’s roommate had handed in incriminating Discord messages in which Tyler stated specifics about bullet engravings and details about a rifle in a hidden location. Discord, however, released a statement saying Robinson did not plan the attack on their platform or promote violence.