Conservative commentator and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was tragically shot and killed on Wednesday during a live Q&A session at Utah Valley University.
The 31-year-old political activist was known for his outspoken right-wing views and social media following.
Who killed Charlie Kirk?
The investigation into Kirk’s murder is still ongoing. Shortly after the shooting, two individuals were arrested, but both have since been released.
Officials confirmed that neither of the detainees had any direct connection to the crime.
In a joint press conference held Thursday, Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason and FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls shared new developments in the investigation.
Commissioner Mason confirmed that the suspect believed to be of “an individual of college age,” was captured on surveillance footage arriving near the campus at approximately 11:52 a.m. local time.
Investigators have since tracked the suspect entering the campus, moving through stairwells, and accessing the rooftop from which the shot was fired.
After the shooting, the suspect was seen fleeing across the rooftop and into a nearby neighbourhood.
Investigators recovered what is believed to be the weapon used in the shooting, which is “a high-powered bolt-action rifle, found in a wooded area” where the suspect is thought to have fled.
Forensic teams have also collected several pieces of physical evidence from the scene, including a footwear impression, a forearm imprint, and an animal paw print.
FBI took to X, “As soon as we heard about the shooting, special agents and personnel from the Salt Lake City Field Office responded immediately. “
The tweet further added, “We have full resources devoted to this investigation, including tactical, operational, investigative, and intelligence support. To be clear, the FBI will fully support and co-lead this investigation alongside our partners.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and no arrests have been made. Officials have confirmed they have the images of the suspect and are working to identify and locate the individual.
How did Charlie Kirk die?
The shooting occurred around midday as Kirk was engaging with audience members following his prepared remarks.
According to video footage reviewed by authorities, Kirk was responding to questions about gun violence when a single shot rang out, striking him in the neck.
He collapsed on stage as students and attendees rushed to flee the auditorium in panic. Kirk was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
His final moments have drawn widespread attention online. During the Q&A, a participant asked, “Do you know how many transgender Americans have been mass shooters over the last 10 years?”
Kirk replied, “Too many.” A follow-up question was then posed, “Do you know how many mass shooters there have been in America over the last 10 years?” Kirk answered, “Counting or not counting gang violence?”
Seconds later, the fatal shot was fired.