I think Micheal Kirkland has a backup plan in case of his demise. I think they involve helping Patrick Jane "finish this thing". They fore shadow this by showing the multiply cups of coffee. He is prepared for any eventuality.
Once he realized he was duped by Patrick Jane with the fake list then he felt that he might not be the right man to take down Red John. He decides to initiate a series of events to help give Jane a clue. Kirkland was smart but not as smart as Jane but maybe he knew how to help.
I think the next couple episode descriptions could fit with this.
6x05 - The Red Tattoo - When a prominent member of Visualize is mysteriously killed, Jane
investigates in the hopes that the case will provide a clue that will
lead him to Red John.
6x06 - Fire and Brimstone - With the final clue in hand, Jane attempts to gather the remaining red john suspects in one place in hopes of finally revealing his identity.
I think the events in 6x05 were initiated in some way by Kirkland to give Jane the final clue.
This isn't really a theory just some speculation.
I think it is Burtram personally. Haffner is the red herring. Burtram has a temper and a bad side. Red John is manifested through his anger and rage.
