OREM, Utah (AP) — A palm print, a shoe impression, and a high-powered rifle found in a wooded area are among the clues laid out by authorities as they appealed for public assistance in finding the assailant responsible for the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot while speaking at Utah Valley University. The search has been ongoing for nearly two days, as federal and state investigators released a series of photos and video footage of the suspect.
To date, over 7,000 leads and tips have been reported to officials, who have not yet named a suspect or determined a motive for this shocking act of political violence. Governor Spencer Cox emphasized the need for public assistance during a news conference alongside FBI Director Kash Patel, conveying the struggle law enforcement faces in apprehending the suspect. Recent posts on social media have shown enhanced images of a potential suspect wearing a hat, sunglasses, and a backpack, a direct appeal to the public for assistance in identifying this individual.
Additional evidence includes a Mauser .30-caliber rifle discovered in the woods along with a spent cartridge and loaded rounds, currently undergoing testing at a federal lab, with officials offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. In a chilling video that has circulated widely online, the attack is visibly captured as Kirk addressed the audience about social issues. As a shot rang out, chaos ensued among the audience, with Kirk sustaining a critical injury before the shooter evaded capture.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has categorized this shooting as a deliberate attack, with Robert Bohls, an FBI agent, confirming it was targeted. The gravity of the incident has spurred strong reactions from both sides of the political spectrum, with notable remarks made by former President Trump who plans to award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom as a testament to his impactful political endeavors.
As the investigation continues, Kirk’s organization, Turning Point USA, expressed its dedication to political discourse amongst young individuals. Kirk's last event was part of his 'American Comeback Tour,' generating both support and significant controversy on campus just prior to the shooting, reflecting the contentious political climate as calls for his appearance were met with public petitioning.
As authorities remain on high alert, residents nearby are taking precautions, while the investigation continues to unfold in hopes of bringing the perpetrator to justice.
To date, over 7,000 leads and tips have been reported to officials, who have not yet named a suspect or determined a motive for this shocking act of political violence. Governor Spencer Cox emphasized the need for public assistance during a news conference alongside FBI Director Kash Patel, conveying the struggle law enforcement faces in apprehending the suspect. Recent posts on social media have shown enhanced images of a potential suspect wearing a hat, sunglasses, and a backpack, a direct appeal to the public for assistance in identifying this individual.
Additional evidence includes a Mauser .30-caliber rifle discovered in the woods along with a spent cartridge and loaded rounds, currently undergoing testing at a federal lab, with officials offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. In a chilling video that has circulated widely online, the attack is visibly captured as Kirk addressed the audience about social issues. As a shot rang out, chaos ensued among the audience, with Kirk sustaining a critical injury before the shooter evaded capture.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has categorized this shooting as a deliberate attack, with Robert Bohls, an FBI agent, confirming it was targeted. The gravity of the incident has spurred strong reactions from both sides of the political spectrum, with notable remarks made by former President Trump who plans to award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom as a testament to his impactful political endeavors.
As the investigation continues, Kirk’s organization, Turning Point USA, expressed its dedication to political discourse amongst young individuals. Kirk's last event was part of his 'American Comeback Tour,' generating both support and significant controversy on campus just prior to the shooting, reflecting the contentious political climate as calls for his appearance were met with public petitioning.
As authorities remain on high alert, residents nearby are taking precautions, while the investigation continues to unfold in hopes of bringing the perpetrator to justice.
