Tyler Robinson, 22, was arrested Friday in connection with the shooting that killed conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, and investigators are probing whether statements or relationships linked to Robinson point to a motive in the killing.
Dozens of Reddit posts attributed to Lance Twiggs — identified by Utah Governor Spencer Cox as the roommate and romantic partner of the suspected shooter — show admiration for Canadian author and commentator Jordan Peterson and include admissions that Twiggs once held "extremely openly transphobic" views, the Daily Mail reported. Governor Cox confirmed Twiggs's relationship to Robinson and said authorities were examining their relationship as part of the investigation.
The account believed to belong to Twiggs used the username "lancelott3" on Reddit and posted in forums related to transgender issues as well as threads about Peterson, according to the Daily Mail. In some posts, the user praised Peterson's books and described the author's teachings as tied to "personal growth and becoming a better person." In others, the account said gender dysphoria can be diagnosed too quickly, particularly in adolescents, and acknowledged past hostile views toward transgender people.
Local authorities have said Twiggs has cooperated with the investigation. The Daily Mail quoted sources saying Twiggs was "aghast" when investigators questioned him about his partner's alleged actions; officials have not publicly detailed the scope of his cooperation.
Robinson was taken into custody after the shooting that left Kirk dead. Officials have said the gunshot struck Kirk in the neck; law enforcement and university officials have provided limited public detail about the sequence of events. Utah state and federal investigators are continuing to examine evidence and interview witnesses.
The social media posts attributed to Twiggs extend the focus of the probe beyond the shooter alone, as investigators look at the suspect's life, relationships and possible influences in the weeks and months before the attack. Publicly available posts and accounts often become part of homicide inquiries as investigators attempt to reconstruct motives and timelines.
Jordan Peterson is a polarizing figure who rose to prominence for his critiques of contemporary gender theory and political correctness. He has been the subject of controversy and disciplinary actions in Canada over public statements on gender identity and other social issues; his online presence and lectures have drawn both intense support and criticism. Peterson's critics have accused him of contributing to oppositional political currents, while supporters frame his work as advocating individual responsibility and free speech.
News outlets have reported that Peterson faced restrictions on some platforms following contentious remarks about gender-affirming care and has drawn scrutiny from professional bodies in Canada. Peterson has also said publicly that he intends to spend more time in the United States.
Investigators have not publicly linked the content of Twiggs's posts or Peterson's views directly to the shooting. Media reports citing the Reddit material attribute the content to the "lancelott3" account; law enforcement has not independently confirmed the account's ownership in public statements.
As the investigation proceeds, state and federal authorities have declined to provide a detailed motive. Utah officials, including Governor Cox, have said they will share additional information when appropriate and that the probe remains active. Prosecutors will ultimately determine whether to file charges beyond the initial arrest, and any such filings will be part of the public record as the case moves through the courts.