OREM, Utah (AP) — A palm print. A shoe impression. And a high-powered rifle found in a wooded area. These are among the clues authorities have put forward as they urge the public to help find the individual responsible for the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk before allegedly dropping from a rooftop at Utah Valley University and disappearing.
The investigation is ongoing as of early Friday, nearly two days after the incident.
Federal and state authorities released images and videos of the suspect they believe to be responsible. Kirk was fatally shot while addressing a crowd at the university.
Officials reported that over 7,000 leads and tips have been submitted. However, no suspects have been named, nor has a motive been established in this latest episode of political violence impacting the nation.
Governor Spencer Cox stated during a Thursday press conference, We cannot do our job without the public’s help.
Despite the calls for assistance, including the release of enhanced photographs of a suspect wearing a black shirt and sunglasses, the investigation has faced significant challenges. Previous detentions of two individuals shortly after the shooting were ruled unrelated to the case.
Additional evidence revealed a Mauser .30-caliber rifle found concealed in a towel, along with a spent cartridge in the chamber. Law enforcement continues to analyze the weapon and ammunition at a federal lab.
A $100,000 reward has been offered for information that leads to an arrest. Governor Cox has indicated a willingness to pursue the death penalty in this case.
Graphic Footage Circulated Online
The shooting occurred during broad daylight as Kirk discussed social issues, and was captured on video that has since proliferated on social media platforms.
The footage shows Kirk speaking with a handheld microphone when a gunshot is heard. He instinctively reaches for his neck as blood spills from a wound, while shocked spectators flee the scene.
Witnesses report that the shooter, appearing to blend in with a college-age crowd, fired a single shot from above before walking away and disappearing into the campus area.
FBI agent Robert Bohls asserted, This was a targeted event. Former President Trump, joined by Democratic leaders, has publicly condemned the violence and has announced plans to award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously.
Kirk’s memorial is anticipated to take place in Phoenix, the headquarters of his political youth organization, Turning Point USA. Trump plans to attend the funeral, with no specific arrangements disclosed yet.
Kirk's Provocative Engagements
The former Turning Point event was controversial, with Kirk engaged in discussions about gun violence just before the attack. The occasion was promoted as the inaugural segment of his American Comeback Tour, provoking significant backlash from students and activists.
Amidst the chaos, students barricaded themselves in classrooms, fearful for their safety. Local residents have expressed apprehension over the shooter still remaining at large.
The incident has sparked quick condemnation across the political spectrum, highlighting an alarming trend of increasing political violence.
