Utah Governor Spencer Cox disclosed during a press conference that Tyler Robinson’s roommate guided investigators to critical evidence on Discord, where messages revealed Robinson’s planning of the shooting. The chat included Robinson discussing retrieving a rifle from a drop site and acknowledging the weapon’s “unique” scope, which could be traced back to him. The roommate initially dismissed the conversation as a joke, unaware of its severity.
On September 11, a family member of Robinson contacted a friend who alerted Washington County Sheriff’s Office investigators, citing Robinson’s alleged confession. Information was shared with Utah County authorities and the FBI. Surveillance footage from UVU captured Robinson arriving on campus in a gray Dodge Challenger on September 10, wearing clothing matching his appearance during interviews.
A family member reported Robinson had become increasingly political, discussing opposition to Charlie Kirk’s visit to UVU and labeling him as “full of hate.” Investigators confirmed Robinson owned the Challenger and interviewed his roommate, who showed Discord messages. These included Robinson referencing retrieving a rifle from a bush, monitoring its location, and changing outfits.
A bolt-action Mauser 98 rifle, wrapped in a dark towel, was found north of Campus Drive Road. The weapon bore a scope and engraved bullet casings. Fired casings featured inscriptions like “Notices, bulges” and “WHAT’S THIS?” Unfired casings included slurs such as “Hey, fascist!” and phrases like “Oh, bella ciao, bella ciao.” Another read, “If you read this, you are gay LMAO.”