A collage of security images shows a person of interest in the fatal shooting of U.S. conservative activist Charlie Kirk during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The photos were released by the Utah Department of Public Safety. Reuters
Investigators released photos and video Thursday of a person of interest in the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Officials also confirmed they found the rifle believed to have been used in the fatal attack.
Shooting During Campus Event
Kirk, 31, was shot Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, about 65 kilometres south of Salt Lake City. He was leading an outdoor debate before a crowd of 3,000 when a bullet struck his neck. Audience members ran in panic.
Officials said the shooter reached a rooftop overlooking the event shortly before Kirk began speaking. Security footage shows a man climbing stairwells, then lowering himself from the roof after the shot.
Images Released to Public
The FBI released grainy security images of a man wearing black clothing, sunglasses, and a baseball cap. His long-sleeved shirt showed an eagle flying across a U.S. flag.
State officials later shared clearer photos showing his backpack and Converse shoes. A video also revealed him crossing a street and entering a wooded area near campus. Investigators found a high-powered bolt-action rifle in that same area.
Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason said the shooter left DNA and a palm print while fleeing the roof.
Federal Reward Offered
The FBI announced a $100,000 reward for information leading to the suspect’s arrest. Investigators have already gathered more than 7,000 public tips and conducted over 200 interviews.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox urged the public to stay engaged. “We cannot do our job without the public’s help right now,” he said.
FBI Director Kash Patel joined state officials at a press briefing but did not speak.
Political Shockwaves
Kirk’s death triggered sharp reactions across political lines. Both Republicans and Democrats condemned the attack. Foreign governments also issued statements denouncing political violence.
Former President Donald Trump called the shooting a “heinous assassination.” He told reporters law enforcement was making “big progress” but did not reveal a motive. Trump later announced he would posthumously award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Vice President JD Vance cancelled a planned trip to New York and instead flew to Utah. He met with Kirk’s family and accompanied them and Kirk’s casket back to Arizona aboard Air Force Two.
Legacy of an Activist
Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA and became a central voice for conservative youth. A close ally of Trump, he built support for the Republican Party among younger voters.
Friends described him as a tireless organizer and debater. Vance wrote on social media that Kirk helped shape both the 2024 election victory and the staffing of the current administration.
Kirk leaves behind his wife, Erika Frantzve, and their two young children.
