Jordan Brann, a former student at Pine View High School in St. George, Utah, shared a TikTok, since deleted, claiming he knew Tyler Robinson from school. Brann described Robinson as “a kid who uses Reddit” and said he spent a lot of time online. He clarified that he wasn’t friends with Robinson but had observed him over three years, noting that heavy internet use can shape extreme beliefs.
The video quickly went viral, gaining over two million views in three days, and sparked discussions about the impact of online culture on young people. Brann said, “This is what happens when you spend too much time online… and you do some crazy things to make people who aren’t your friends happy.”
Other students described Robinson as a quiet, normal student involved in band and the auto mechanics club. He earned a four-year scholarship to Utah State University but attended for only one semester, later enrolling in Dixie Technical College’s electrical apprenticeship program.
Authorities revealed that bullets used in the shooting contained internet memes and anti-fascist references. Engravings included phrases like “Notices bulge OWO, what’s this?” and lines referencing the Iron Front and the anti-fascist song “Bella Ciao.” Governor Spencer Cox called the details “disturbing,” noting the suspect’s online activity influenced his actions. Charlie Kirk, 31, founder of Turning Point USA, was shot on September 10 while giving a speech at Utah Valley University and later died at a hospital. Robinson, 22, was arrested less than 34 hours later after his father recognized him in FBI-released surveillance footage.