OREM, UTAH — In the hours after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, suspect Tyler Robinson allegedly turned to a private Discord chat group where he made sarcastic remarks, denied involvement, and joked about being hunted by authorities.
“Doppelganger” Excuse
When other users shared FBI surveillance images showing the suspected shooter, one tagged Robinson with the message “wya 💀.” (Short for 'Where you at'). Robinson replied that the figure in the photo was not him, but a “doppelganger” trying to get him in trouble.
Jokes About the Reward
Members of the chat went on to joke, “Tyler killed Charlie!!!” and even teased about turning him in to collect the FBI’s $100,000 reward. Robinson allegedly shot back: “Only if I get a cut,”
Mocking Investigators
At one point, Robinson quipped that he had a “manifesto and exact copy rifle” lying around, a sarcastic jab at the types of evidence law enforcement was reportedly seeking. He also dismissed media reports about unusual inscriptions on recovered ammunition, telling chat members that those details came from “some dude in the briefing room” rather than confirmed FBI findings.
Spreading Conspiracies
In another exchange, Robinson joked that Kirk might not be dead at all. He suggested the activist had faked his own death to escape politics and “live out a dream life somewhere else.”
Platform Response
Discord, which hosts millions of chat groups, said it has found no evidence that Robinson planned the attack on its platform or used it for operational purposes. Investigators, however, are reviewing the chat logs as part of the broader case.
Where Things Currently Stand
Robinson, 22, later surrendered to authorities after pressure from relatives and tips from the public. He remains in custody as prosecutors weigh state and federal charges.
The Discord conversations have become a central focus of media attention, offering a window into Robinson’s mindset immediately after the shooting — a mix of deflection, dark humor, and casual disdain for the seriousness of the situation.
