U.S. investigators released photos and video Thursday of a person of interest in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and confirmed they had recovered the rifle believed to have been used in the attack.
Kirk, 31, was a prominent author, podcast host, and close ally of President Donald Trump. Known for his role in building Republican support among younger voters, he was killed Wednesday by a single gunshot while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, about 40 miles south of Salt Lake City. Trump called the killing a “heinous assassination.”
Shooter’s Actions Caught On Camera
Security footage shows the suspect arriving on campus shortly before the event, a debate Kirk titled “Prove Me Wrong” held outdoors before a crowd of 3,000. The video captures a man climbing stairwells to reach a rooftop before firing the shot that struck Kirk in the neck as he answered a question about mass shootings.
Audience members fled in panic. Officials said the shooter left a palm imprint and other DNA evidence while descending from the roof. He was later seen crossing a street and moving into a wooded area near campus, where investigators found a “high-powered, bolt-action” rifle.
The FBI offered a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest. Photos released show a slender young man wearing a black top with an image of a bald eagle across a U.S. flag, black sunglasses, a dark baseball cap, a backpack, and Converse shoes.
Investigation Ongoing
Federal and state authorities have not publicly confirmed a motive. Trump, however, suggested he had some indication of the shooter’s reasoning. “We’ll let you know about that later,” he said, adding that law enforcement was making “big progress” in the case.
Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason confirmed additional video evidence of the suspect leaving the rooftop and moving through nearby areas.
Lawmakers, commentators, and online users have already speculated about the gunman’s political leanings, though officials have urged restraint while the investigation continues.
Public Help Requested
Utah Governor Spencer Cox appealed directly to the public. “We cannot do our job without the public’s help right now,” he told reporters. Cox said investigators had already received more than 7,000 tips and conducted over 200 interviews since the shooting.
FBI Director Kash Patel traveled to Utah and appeared at a press briefing alongside state officials, though he did not make a statement. The shooter has not been publicly identified.