FBI Releases Images of Person of Interest Amid Manhunt for Charlie Kirk’s K¡ller

In a shocking turn of events that has sent ripples across the nation, the FBI has released images of a person of interest connected to the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk, the prominent conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA. The incident occurred during a public event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, leaving the country grappling with the tragedy and the urgent search for the suspect.

Authorities have described the shooting as a targeted attack, and the manhunt for the individual believed to be responsible is ongoing with law enforcement working tirelessly to bring justice.

Charlie Kirk, a well-known figure in the conservative youth movement, was attending an outdoor event on the Orem campus of Utah Valley University when the shooting took place. At approximately 12:20 p.m., Kirk was struck by a single bullet fired from the roof of a nearby building, according to officials.

The FBI’s Salt Lake City office shared two images of the person of interest on social media platform X, urging the public to assist in identifying the suspect. The individual is described as college-aged, and authorities believe he fled on foot into a nearby neighborhood after the shooting.

Special Agent Robert Bohls of the Salt Lake City FBI office confirmed that investigators have recovered what is believed to be the weapon used in the shooting. The weapon, described as a high-powered bolt-action rifle, was found in a wooded area close to the scene.

“This is a critical piece of evidence in our investigation,” Bohls stated during a press briefing on Thursday. “We are following every lead and using all available resources to locate the suspect.”

Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason provided further details about the investigation. He revealed that investigators have tracked the suspect’s movements through video footage captured on campus.

“The suspect arrived on the campus around 11:52 a.m. and made his way to the roof of the building near the event,” Mason explained. “From there, he fired the fatal shot at Charlie Kirk before escaping.”

While officials have good video footage of the suspect, they have decided not to release it publicly at this time to avoid compromising the investigation.

After the shooting, the suspect reportedly jumped off the building and fled into a residential neighborhood. Law enforcement officers are canvassing the area, reviewing doorbell camera footage, and interviewing witnesses to gather more information.

In addition to the weapon, investigators have collected forensic evidence including a footwear impression, a palm print, and forearm imprints believed to be linked to the suspect.

“This was a targeted attack,” Mason emphasized. “We are exhausting every lead and will not rest until the individual responsible is apprehended.”

The FBI has appealed to the public for any tips or information related to the incident, urging those who may have photos or videos of the suspect or the event to come forward.

The tragic shooting has ignited a wave of reactions across the political spectrum. Former President Donald Trump and other prominent MAGA figures quickly linked the killing to what they described as inflammatory political rhetoric from the left.

In a social media video posted on Wednesday, Trump condemned the violence and blamed the “radical Left” for creating an environment that fosters such attacks.

“For years, those on the radical Left have compared wonderful Americans like Charlie to Nazis and the world’s worst criminals,” Trump said. “This kind of rhetoric is directly responsible for the terrorism that we are seeing today, and it must stop.”

His son, Eric Trump, echoed the sentiment during an appearance on Fox News, expressing frustration over what he sees as one-sided political violence.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox, visibly emotional, addressed the nation on Wednesday, acknowledging the increasing political violence affecting both Democrats and Republicans.

“Our nation is broken,” Cox said. “We have seen political assassinations and attempted assassinations recently, and now this tragedy. Nothing I say can fix what is broken or bring back Charlie Kirk. Our hearts are broken.”

Charlie Kirk was a polarizing figure, known for his passionate advocacy of conservative values and his influence over young voters. He founded Turning Point USA in 2012 at the age of 18, and by the 2024 elections, he had become a significant force in mobilizing youth support for Donald Trump.

The Utah event was part of a tour that aimed to engage young conservatives with a “prove me wrong” table, encouraging open debate.

Despite the controversy surrounding his campus visits, no specific or credible threats had been reported prior to the shooting, according to Utah law enforcement sources.

The event attracted an estimated crowd of over 3,000 people. Security included six police officers and Kirk’s private security team.

Following the shooting, Utah Valley University announced it would remain closed until September 14 as the community mourns and authorities continue their investigation.

Two individuals were initially taken into custody but were later released after questioning. Authorities have stated that there is no evidence linking these individuals to the shooting.

Tributes poured in from across the political divide. Trump called Kirk “a giant of his generation” and announced he would posthumously award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

“Charlie was loved and admired by all, especially me,” Trump said. “His loss is devastating.”

Vice President JD Vance described Kirk as “a genuinely good guy and a young father,” urging prayers for the family.

Democratic leaders also condemned the violence. President Joe Biden called the attack “horrific” and urged unity in rejecting political violence.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and California Governor Gavin Newsom both spoke out against the attack, emphasizing that violence has no place in American political life.

“This growing type of unconscionable violence cannot be allowed in our society,” Shapiro said.

Newsom added, “We must reject political violence in every form.”

The shooting has raised urgent questions about political discourse in America and the safety of public figures, especially those involved in highly polarized debates.

Security measures at political events, the role of social media in fueling division, and the responsibility of political leaders to temper rhetoric have all come under scrutiny in the wake of this tragedy.

As the manhunt continues, law enforcement agencies are coordinating efforts to ensure the suspect is found and brought to justice swiftly.

The FBI and local police are working “around the clock” and have pledged to leave no stone unturned in their investigation.

Charlie Kirk’s death marks a somber moment for the nation, highlighting the dangerous consequences of political extremism and violence.

His supporters remember him as a passionate advocate for conservative values and a charismatic leader who inspired many young Americans.

Communities across Utah and the nation have begun holding vigils and memorials to honor Kirk’s life and legacy.

Flowers and messages of condolence have been placed at the university campus where the shooting occurred, as the community grapples with the loss.

The investigation remains active, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.

As the nation watches closely, the hope is that justice will be served and that this tragedy will spark renewed efforts to bridge divides and promote peaceful dialogue.