FBI releases image of suspect in Charlie Kirk assassination, seeks public’s help

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has released a photograph of a “person of interest” linked to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, urging the public to help identify the suspect.

In a statement posted on X, the FBI’s Salt Lake City division said: “We are asking for the public’s help identifying this person of interest in connection with the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.” The announcement was accompanied by pictures of the suspect.

Kirk, a prominent Donald Trump ally and the founder of the youth political organization Turning Point USA, was shot dead on Wednesday while addressing a debate at the Sorensen Center courtyard on the Utah Valley University campus. Authorities say he was killed by a single sniper’s bullet as he was speaking into a microphone.

Eyewitnesses described the horrifying scene, as blood poured from Kirk’s neck within seconds of the gunshot, sparking chaos and panic among attendees. Disturbing videos of the assassination quickly went viral across social media platforms.

According to investigators, the suspected sniper fired from a rooftop before fleeing into a nearby neighborhood. A high-powered bolt-action rifle believed to have been used in the attack has since been recovered. Officials are reviewing surveillance footage to track the suspect’s movements.

The tragic incident unfolded moments after Kirk responded to a controversial question from an audience member regarding mass shootings in the United States. As he debated the role of gun violence in society, a shot rang out, silencing the activist instantly.

Kirk’s assassination has drawn widespread condemnation. U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Kirk would be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, are also scheduled to meet with Kirk’s family in Salt Lake City.

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The FBI has called on anyone with information about the suspect to come forward as the nationwide manhunt intensifies.