James Holmes. Photo from University of Colorado Denver
A federal law enforcement official tells USA TODAY's Kevin Johnson that the four weapons seized from shooting suspect James Holmes were purchased in May, June and July at Denver and Aurora-area gun shops. Investigators have recovered at least one video from a store security camera recording a purchase.
The assault rifle was traced to a Gander Mountain gun store in Thornton, Colo., and the Remington shotgun and one of the Glock handguns were bought at a Bass Pro Shop in Denver. The second Glock was purchased at Gander Mountain store in Aurora.
The official, who was not authorized to speak publicly, said a cache of ammunition was recovered in the suspect's car and used magazines were found discarded in the theater.
Holmes was armed with an AR-15 assault rifle, a 12 gauge shotgun and a Glock .40 caliber handgun, said Aurora Police Chief Dan Oates. A .40 gauge handgun was found in his car, which was parked just outside the rear entrance to the cinema.