Inside the mind of a killer

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - It's still unclear whether James Holmes had a history of violence or psychotic episodes.

Experts say in most premeditated mass murder cases, the shooter is a lone wolf type.

Forensic psychologist Dr. Paul Kalill told 22News, there are fifteen key signs mental health professionals look for, including social withdrawal and uncontrolled anger. “Most of the time there is some sort of a mental illness that the person may be associated with, and that's why you want to look at the early warning signs. ”

But Peter Vangeness, a human service provider with the Guide Wire Agency of Springfield said even when an at-risk profile is developed; most so-called "lone wolves" never reach the level of actual physical violence.

Recent neurological research doesn't come close enough to understanding the mind of a mass murderer.