Keywords: Charlie Kirk shooting, FBI person of interest, Utah Valley University shooting, Turning Point USA, political violence, $100K reward
FBI Searches for Charlie Kirk Shooting Suspect
The FBI has released images of a person of interest in connection with the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk, founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, during an event at Utah Valley University (UVU).
Authorities are urging the public to help identify the suspect, who was captured on campus security footage wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses. The FBI has announced a $100,000 reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of the shooter.
Weapon Recovery and Forensic Investigation
Law enforcement officials have recovered a high-powered bolt-action rifle near the scene of the shooting, believed to be the weapon used in the attack. The rifle, an older imported Mauser .30-06 caliber model, was found wrapped in a towel.
Cartridges recovered from the area contained writing referencing “transgender and anti-fascist”, though authorities are still investigating the meaning and possible motives. The gun and cartridges will undergo advanced forensic testing at the FBI laboratory in Quantico, Virginia, including DNA and fingerprint analysis.
Suspect’s Movements and Campus Security
The suspect, believed to be college-aged, was tracked from the campus stairwell to the roof of a building near the event. At approximately 12:20 p.m., the suspect fired a single shot, fatally wounding Charlie Kirk.
After the shooting, the suspect fled the campus into a nearby neighborhood. Authorities are reviewing doorbell camera footage, witness accounts, and other leads to track the individual. Utah officials confirmed that no suspects are currently in custody, and the investigation remains active.
Charlie Kirk: Background and Controversial Campus Visit
Charlie Kirk, 31, was a prominent conservative activist and close ally of former President Donald Trump. He founded Turning Point USA in 2012 and played a key role in mobilizing young voters in the 2024 election.
Kirk’s visit to UVU included a “prove me wrong” table and was controversial among some students, though law enforcement reported no credible threats prior to the shooting. More than 3,000 attendees were present at the event, which was monitored by campus police and Kirk’s private security team.
Political Reactions
The shooting has sparked national attention and condemnation across political lines:
- President Donald Trump ordered all U.S. flags to be lowered to half-staff and announced he would posthumously award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, calling him a “giant of his generation.”
- Utah Governor Spencer Cox described the incident as a targeted political attack, emphasizing the need for unity and safety.
- Former President Joe Biden and other political leaders condemned the violence, urging national reflection and restraint.
Trump and prominent conservative figures linked the attack to political rhetoric, calling for nonviolence among supporters.
Law Enforcement Efforts
Authorities continue to investigate all leads, collecting footwear impressions, palm prints, and forearm imprints at the scene. Officials emphasized that the attack was targeted, and they are actively searching for the shooter. The public is encouraged to provide tips, photos, or video evidence to assist the investigation.
Utah Valley University remains closed until September 14 as authorities continue their investigation.
Conclusion
The fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk has highlighted concerns over political violence and campus safety. Law enforcement agencies are working diligently to locate the suspect, while the nation mourns the loss of a prominent conservative activist.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooter to contact the FBI immediately, as the manhunt continues.
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