The manhunt for the individual responsible for the shooting death of Charlie Kirk, founder of the right-leaning organization Turning Point USA, continues. Authorities reported that no suspects were in custody as of Thursday afternoon, more than 20 hours after the incident, which occurred during a Kirk event at Utah Valley University.
The FBI has released an image of a person of interest, described as a man in a black outfit with an American flag on his shirt, and is soliciting public assistance for identification. A reward of up to $100,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest of those involved.
Beau Mason, Commissioner of the Utah Department of Public Safety, provided an update at a press conference, detailing a timeline of events. The shooter reportedly arrived on campus shortly before noon and fled the scene via a nearby neighborhood after accessing a rooftop. Law enforcement possesses video footage of the suspect but has opted not to disclose it at this time. They are also working with local residents to gather additional surveillance data.
Authorities believe they have recovered the weapon used in the shooting, a high-powered rifle, along with ammunition that reportedly features engravings related to transgender and anti-fascist ideologies. However, officials cautioned that this information is preliminary and may not be fully verified.
The investigation has generated over 130 tips to the FBI, and while two individuals were initially detained, they were later released with no connection to the shooting established. The event has raised concerns about the increasing prevalence of political violence in the U.S., prompting statements of condemnation from various political leaders. The investigation continues, with law enforcement committed to transparency and public safety.