Charlie Kirk murder suspect still on the run more than 24 hours after the conservative activist was fatally shot during a public event at Utah Valley University. The shocking assassination has sparked an intense nationwide manhunt, with the FBI confirming the recovery of the weapon believed to have been used in the killing.
According to authorities, Charlie Kirk was struck in the neck by a single round fired from a rooftop while speaking at a debate in Orem, Utah. He was pronounced dead shortly afterward, leaving the conservative movement in mourning and igniting a wave of tributes from political allies and opponents alike.
FBI Launches Massive Investigation
The Charlie Kirk murder suspect still on the run remains a top priority for federal and state investigators. FBI Special Agent Robert Bohls announced that agents had recovered a “high-powered, bolt-action rifle” in a wooded area near the crime scene. According to US media reports, the weapon is an imported Mauser .30-06 bolt-action rifle — a type known for its accuracy but slower rate of fire compared to semi-automatic rifles.
Three unfired rounds of ammunition were discovered inside the rifle. Investigators revealed that both the weapon and ammunition were engraved with messages referencing transgender and antifascist ideology, raising questions about a potential political motive. The rifle has been sent to an FBI laboratory for forensic testing, including fingerprint and DNA analysis.
The FBI has now received over 7,000 tips and leads in the case. Bohls emphasized that all credible information is being followed up on urgently. To encourage public cooperation, the agency is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of the shooter.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox has vowed that when the Charlie Kirk murder suspect still on the run is captured and tried, he will push for the death penalty. “This was a deliberate, cold-blooded assassination of a public figure. Justice must be served,” Cox stated.
Emotional Vigil and Public Outcry
Across Utah, conservatives and supporters of free speech gathered to honor Kirk’s memory. At Orem Park, hundreds of attendees wearing red “MAGA” caps and carrying American flags held a candlelight vigil on Thursday night. Witnesses described the atmosphere as somber and surreal.
Dave Sanchez, 26, who was present at the debate, told reporters: “We watch him all the time, and so it really does feel like one of your own family members, your own brother’s been killed.”
Jonathan Silva, 35, said the tragedy had shaken his belief in the safety of public events. “It still feels insane that this happened. It’s totally surreal.” His wife, Angelina, added that the growing climate of political violence had made them reconsider starting a family.
Bipartisan Response from Youth Leaders
Within hours of the killing, both the Connecticut Young Republicans and Young Democrats issued a rare joint statement calling the assassination “unacceptable.” Alan Cunningham, president of the Young Democrats, described Kirk’s death as a “volatile moment” and urged unity.
Patrick Burland, president of the Young Republicans, echoed those sentiments, saying, “When they took a shot at Charlie, they’re almost taking a shot at the very idea of open debate and free expression. This is something that no one on either side is going to stand for.”
National Impact and Trump’s Response
Former President Donald Trump called Kirk’s killing “a political assassination” and blamed the “radical left,” but he urged supporters to remain nonviolent during the search for the suspect. “We must let justice take its course,” Trump said in a statement.
Political analysts say that the killing could further deepen the divide in an already polarized nation. Calls for increased security at public debates and campus events have intensified as authorities reassess potential threats to political speakers.
Continuing Manhunt
The Charlie Kirk murder suspect still on the run has so far evaded capture despite an aggressive manhunt. Law enforcement agencies have released security camera footage and images of a “person of interest” seen near the rooftop from which the fatal shot was fired.
Authorities have cautioned the public not to approach the suspect if spotted and to immediately contact law enforcement. The FBI has stressed that this case is its highest priority and that additional updates will be provided as soon as new information is confirmed.
A Nation Watching
The assassination of Charlie Kirk has not only rattled the conservative movement but also raised broader concerns about political violence, free expression, and safety at public events. The Charlie Kirk murder suspect still on the run represents more than just a criminal investigation — it has become a symbol of the volatile state of American politics.
With investigators working around the clock, the nation waits for justice and answers about who carried out this attack and why. The discovery of the engraved rifle, the ideological messages, and the sheer scale of public tips suggest that authorities may soon be closer to identifying the killer.
Until then, Charlie Kirk’s supporters, family, and political allies continue to mourn and demand accountability. As Governor Cox stated, “We will not rest until the perpetrator of this act is caught, tried, and punished to the fullest extent of the law.”
Source: Al Jazeera
