OREM, Utah (AP) — A palm print, a shoe impression, and a high-powered rifle found in a wooded area are key clues being explored by authorities as they call for public assistance in locating the individual responsible for the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The horrific incident occurred at Utah Valley University, where Kirk was shot while addressing a crowd.
Federal investigators and state officials have released photos and video footage of a suspect described as wearing a hat, sunglasses, and a black shirt. As the search continued into Friday, nearly two days after the event, officials reported over 7,000 tips and leads, yet no suspect has been named and a motive remains unclear.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox emphasized the importance of public help during a press conference alongside FBI Director Kash Patel, revealing their deepening struggles to identify the shooter after two initial detentions demonstrated no connections to the case.
Among the chilling discoveries is a Mauser .30-caliber rifle located in a towel in nearby woods, loaded with a spent cartridge and three additional rounds. Law enforcement is currently testing the weapon at a federal laboratory. A $100,000 reward is being offered for pertinent information, and Gov. Cox indicated the potential pursuit of a death penalty.
Witness accounts detail the chaos that erupted during Kirk's speech. Video footage shows him momentarily pausing as a shot rang out, blood visible as he attempted to comprehend the attack. Attendees panicked, while other individuals barricaded themselves in classrooms for safety.
The act has drawn swift bipartisan condemnation amid a worrying surge of political violence in America, prompting responses even from former President Trump, who honored Kirk's contributions to the political landscape.
As Kirk's community mourns, the persistence of political divisiveness is laid bare, with Kirk's legacy emerging as a touchstone in the ongoing debate around vitriol in political discourse and the ensuing violence it can provoke.
Federal investigators and state officials have released photos and video footage of a suspect described as wearing a hat, sunglasses, and a black shirt. As the search continued into Friday, nearly two days after the event, officials reported over 7,000 tips and leads, yet no suspect has been named and a motive remains unclear.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox emphasized the importance of public help during a press conference alongside FBI Director Kash Patel, revealing their deepening struggles to identify the shooter after two initial detentions demonstrated no connections to the case.
Among the chilling discoveries is a Mauser .30-caliber rifle located in a towel in nearby woods, loaded with a spent cartridge and three additional rounds. Law enforcement is currently testing the weapon at a federal laboratory. A $100,000 reward is being offered for pertinent information, and Gov. Cox indicated the potential pursuit of a death penalty.
Witness accounts detail the chaos that erupted during Kirk's speech. Video footage shows him momentarily pausing as a shot rang out, blood visible as he attempted to comprehend the attack. Attendees panicked, while other individuals barricaded themselves in classrooms for safety.
The act has drawn swift bipartisan condemnation amid a worrying surge of political violence in America, prompting responses even from former President Trump, who honored Kirk's contributions to the political landscape.
As Kirk's community mourns, the persistence of political divisiveness is laid bare, with Kirk's legacy emerging as a touchstone in the ongoing debate around vitriol in political discourse and the ensuing violence it can provoke.
