The FBI in Salt Lake City has released new images of a “person of interest” in connection with the shooting of Charlie Kirk that occurred yesterday. Authorities are now seeking the public’s assistance in identifying this individual.
Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason announced several key developments in the ongoing investigation into the assassination of Charlie Kirk in the recent press briefing.
According to Mason, the suspect was recorded arriving near the campus at approximately 11:52 a.m. local time. Investigators have since traced the suspect’s movements as he entered the campus, navigated stairwells to reach the rooftop, and crossed to the location where the fatal shots were fired.
Following the shooting, authorities tracked the suspect as he moved across the rooftop before jumping off the building and fleeing the campus into a nearby neighbourhood, Mason said.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls confirmed that earlier this morning, investigators recovered what is believed to be the weapon used in the shooting, which is a high-powered bolt-action rifle, discovered in a wooded area where the suspect is thought to have fled.
In addition to the firearm, forensic teams have found and are analysing several pieces of physical evidence at the scene, including a footwear impression, a paw print, and a forearm imprint.
He also added that the individual appears to be of college age, and they also have the images of the shooter
How did Charlie Kirk die?
Charlie Kirk, a well-known conservative figure and staunch ally of President Donald Trump, was fatally shot during a live event at Utah Valley University.
The shooting occurred around midday, during a Q&A session following his speech. In a video captured at the scene, Kirk can be seen responding to a question when a single gunshot rings out.
He collapses backward in his chair, as the crowd reacts in panic. Initial reports indicated that a suspect was in custody, but later updates revealed conflicting information about the situation.