On Thursday afternoon (local America time), US President Donald Trump spoke to reporters after Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at Utah Valley University this week.

Even 24 hours after the fatal incident, the state Public Safety Department said authorities still did not have a suspect in custody. Earlier in the day, officials had released photos of a potential shooter, labelling him a “person of interest,” in connection with the case at hand.

Authorities had previously taken at least two people into custody, who were eventually released without being charged after a formal round of interrogation.

Despite the lack of positive movement in the case, Trump told reporters at the White House that law enforcement authorities were making “big process” in the manhunt for the person responsible for the conservative activist’s death.

ALSO READ

Trump calls Charlie Kirk’s shooter ‘an animal’

Calling the shooter, who has yet to be named, “an animal, a total animal,” he said he had an “indication” of the perpetrator’s possible motive. However, he didn’t elaborate further.

A reporter called out to Trump, asking if he thought the shooter was a “trained assassin,” adding his instincts are usually correct about such things. The US president replied, “I’d rather not say,” before calling him an “animal.”

He then went on to praise Kirk and his mobilisation of youth, describing the shooter’s actions as “disgraceful.” Trump issued a warning, saying that they would be dealing with the person responsible “appropriately.”

Before heading on towards New York, the MAGA leader also confirmed that he had reached out to Kirk’s family, Erika Lane Frantzve, and had a “long talk with her.” Sharing more insight on the White House lawn, he said, “She’s devastated, absolutely devastated.”

Trump to attend Charlie Kirk’s funeral

The American leader further disclosed that he was planning to attend the Turning Point USA founder’s funeral, which he believed was slated for next weekend in Arizona.

ALSO READ

In the wake of the recent tragedy, the Republican president has since announced that he would be posthumously honouring Charlie Kirk with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

“Charlie was a giant of his generation, a champion of liberty and an inspiration to millions and millions of people,” he said earlier that morning. “We miss him greatly, yet I have no doubt that Charlie’s voice and the courage he put into the hearts of countless people, especially young people, will live on.” The ceremony date has yet to be disclosed.

Prior to Trump’s comments on the late media personality, Vice President JD Vance landed in Utah, as he was expected to meet Kirk’s family and friends, according to NBC News’ report citing three sources privy to the schedule.

The Republican politician was also spotted carrying the deceased activist’s casket. He and his wife, Usha Vance, arrived in Phoenix with the casket aboard Air Force Two on Thursday evening.