The individual who shot and killed conservative activist Charlie Kirk and then fled the scene, evading capture by running into the nearby woods, has not been apprehended more than 24 hours later. Federal investigators have released images of the suspected shooter, appealing to the public for assistance in identifying the person responsible for the act.
Authorities have gathered evidence such as a palm print, a shoe impression, and a high-powered hunting rifle discovered in a wooded area along the shooter’s escape route. Despite this, no suspect has been named, and the motive behind the killing remains unknown, with authorities treating it as a politically motivated act of violence.
The released photos depict an individual wearing a hat, sunglasses, and a long-sleeve black shirt, carrying a backpack. Additionally, law enforcement has offered a $100,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest of the shooter, indicating the necessity of public tips in solving the case.
Although two individuals were initially taken into custody following the shooting at Utah Valley University, they were later released, prompting officials to pursue new leads regarding a separate person of interest on Thursday.
Officials in Utah hold a press conference to provide updates on the investigation into the shooting death of Charlie Kirk. Kirk was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
At a press conference with FBI Director Kash Patel, a video was shown depicting the suspected shooter swiftly moving across the roof of the building where the incident occurred, before fleeing into the woods. Authorities believe that the shooter left behind identifiable imprints, including a palm print, providing potential clues to their identity.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox has urged the public to assist in locating the shooter, emphasizing the significant efforts being made nationwide to bring the perpetrator to justice. The FBI has received over 7,000 leads and tips, with preparations underway for a potential pursuit of the death penalty.
The direct appeals for public support at the evening news conference, along with the release of new and enhanced images, indicate the challenges law enforcement faces in identifying the shooter and determining their current location, even a day and a half after the incident.
No questions were taken during the news conference, and Patel did not speak at the event.
Rifle discovered in the woods
An essential piece of evidence in the investigation was a Mauser .30-calibre, bolt-action rifle found in the woods, wrapped in a towel. The weapon contained a spent cartridge in the chamber, with three additional rounds loaded in the magazine. Law enforcement is currently analyzing the rifle and ammunition at a federal lab.</p
