Shooter Remains at Large in Fatal Shooting of Charlie Kirk

Lead: Charlie Kirk, 31, conservative activist and Turning Point USA co-founder, was fatally shot at Utah Valley University on Wednesday; authorities are hunting a college-aged suspect believed to have fired from a rooftop.

Nut Graf: The killing at UVU’s Orem campus during Kirk’s “American Comeback Tour” underscores rising political violence in the United States. Investigators recovered a bolt-action rifle marked with slogans but have yet to identify or apprehend the shooter.

Manhunt Underway

Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, released surveillance images of a person of interest seen wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses in a stairwell near the Losee Center. A reward of up to $100,000 is offered for information leading to the suspect’s arrest.

  • Recovered weapon: Mauser .30-06 bolt-action rifle wrapped in a towel, with one spent and three unspent cartridges inscribed with transgender and antifascist slogans
  • Video evidence: quality footage indicates the assailant fired a single shot from the rooftop approximately 150 yards from Kirk’s debate table
  • Security response: UVU is closed until September 14; campus evacuated building to building during the initial lockdown

Political Reactions and Security Concerns

President Trump ordered flags at half-staff and blamed “demonizing rhetoric” for fueling violence. Vice President Vance and Utah Governor Spencer Cox-who called the attack a “political assassination”-will meet Kirk’s family in Salt Lake City. Campus visits by high-profile figures may prompt tighter security at political events nationwide.

Background and Tour Details

Kirk, a vocal Trump ally with millions of social-media followers, was addressing a “Prove Me Wrong” outdoor debate when he was struck around 12:20 p.m. local time. This was the first of at least 15 scheduled university stops aimed at engaging young voters.

Next Steps in Investigation

Authorities continue door-to-door inquiries in surrounding neighborhoods and forensic analysis of the rifle. Two individuals briefly detained were released without charges. Officials urge anyone with photos or video from the event to contact the FBI tip line.