Authorities Recover Rifle, Secure “Good Video” in Manhunt for Charlie Kirk’s Killer
Orem, Utah, September 11, 2025 — Authorities investigating the shocking assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University (UVU) announced significant breakthroughs in the case during a press conference this morning. The FBI and Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) confirmed the recovery of a rifle believed to be the murder weapon and revealed they have obtained “good video footage” of the suspect, who remains at large. The targeted killing of the 31-year-old Turning Point USA founder, shot during a public speaking event on Wednesday, has sent shockwaves across the nation, prompting bipartisan condemnation and raising fears of escalating political violence.
The Incident: A Targeted Assassination
On September 10, 2025, Charlie Kirk was speaking at a “Prove Me Wrong” debate-style event as part of his “American Comeback” tour on UVU’s campus in Orem, Utah. The event, held under a large tent in the campus courtyard, drew approximately 3,000 attendees, many of whom were students and supporters engaging with Kirk on contentious issues like gun violence. At around 12:20 p.m. MST, a single gunshot pierced the air, striking Kirk in the neck. Graphic videos circulating online—though authorities urge the public not to share them—show Kirk recoiling as blood appeared on his neck, with the crowd erupting into panic and fleeing the scene.
Kirk was rushed to Timpanogos Regional Hospital in Orem, where medical staff worked to save him. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead hours later. The FBI’s Salt Lake City field office, in coordination with Utah DPS and local law enforcement, immediately classified the shooting as a targeted political assassination. Authorities have emphasized there is no ongoing threat to the broader community, but the suspect’s escape has heightened urgency in the manhunt.
Breakthroughs in the Investigation
During a joint press conference on September 11, FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls and Utah DPS Commissioner Beau Mason provided critical updates on the investigation, expressing confidence in apprehending the suspect soon.
Recovery of the Murder Weapon
Investigators recovered a high-powered bolt-action rifle in a wooded area near the UVU campus, where the suspect is believed to have fled after the shooting. The rifle is undergoing forensic analysis at the FBI’s laboratory, including ballistic testing to confirm it was used in the attack. Additional evidence collected from the scene includes a footwear impression, a palm print, and forearm imprints, all of which are being examined to identify the shooter. Unverified reports on social media platforms like X have claimed the ammunition bore engravings linked to anti-fascist or transgender ideology, but authorities have not corroborated these claims and caution against speculation.
“Good Video” of the Suspect
Commissioner Mason revealed that campus security cameras captured clear footage of the suspect’s movements before, during, and after the shooting. The video shows an individual arriving on campus at approximately 11:52 a.m., positioning themselves on the rooftop of the nearby Losee Center building—roughly 200-300 yards from the event site—and firing the fatal shot. The suspect then jumped from the rooftop and fled on foot through a wooded area into a nearby residential neighborhood. While the footage has not been released to the public to protect the investigation’s integrity, Agent Bohls noted that it is a critical tool in identifying the shooter. Authorities have also received over 130 tips from the public, including photos and videos from witnesses, which are being actively reviewed.
Suspect Description
The suspect is described as appearing “college-aged,” likely in their late teens to early twenties, and was dressed in all-dark clothing, allowing them to blend seamlessly into the campus environment. This suggests either familiarity with the area or an intentional effort to appear student-like. No official motive has been disclosed, but Kirk’s prominence as a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump and critic of progressive causes, including transgender rights and campus activism, points to a possible political motivation. Two individuals detained on Wednesday for questioning were released after being cleared of involvement.
Timeline of the Shooting
Based on official reports and eyewitness accounts, the sequence of events unfolded as follows:
- 11:52 a.m. MST: The suspect arrives on UVU’s campus.
- ~12:00 p.m.: Kirk’s event begins, with the activist fielding questions on gun violence and other topics.
- 12:20 p.m.: A single shot is fired from the Losee Center rooftop, striking Kirk in the neck.
- Immediate Aftermath: The crowd scatters in panic; the suspect jumps from the roof and flees through a wooded area into a residential neighborhood.
- Post-Shooting: Kirk is transported to Timpanogos Regional Hospital, where he succumbs to his injuries. Multiple crime scenes are secured across the campus and surrounding areas.
Witnesses reported lax security at the event, noting the absence of checkpoints or bag screenings, which may have allowed the shooter to access the rooftop undetected. The open nature of the campus and the event’s outdoor setting likely complicated efforts to secure the area.
National Reaction and Political Fallout
The assassination has reverberated across the political spectrum, amplifying concerns about the rising tide of political violence in the United States. President Donald Trump, in a video statement from the White House, called Kirk a “martyr for truth and freedom” and blamed “radical left” rhetoric for inciting the attack. Trump announced that Kirk would be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the nation’s highest civilian honors. Flags have been lowered to half-staff nationwide through Sunday in Kirk’s memory.
Bipartisan leaders have condemned the killing, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer urging unity and decrying political violence as a threat to democracy. “No one should lose their life for their beliefs, no matter how strongly we may disagree,” Schumer said in a statement. Vigils have sprung up at UVU’s campus and at Turning Point USA’s headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona, where supporters have gathered to honor Kirk’s legacy.
Kirk, a polarizing figure, was a leading voice in conservative media, known for co-founding Turning Point USA and advocating for Second Amendment rights, free speech, and traditional values. His debates often drew both fervent supporters and vocal critics, particularly on college campuses. The assassination follows a string of high-profile political violence incidents, including attempted attacks on Trump and other public figures, underscoring the volatile climate.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
The FBI and Utah DPS are urging the public to provide any information that could aid the investigation. Tips can be submitted via the FBI’s hotline at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at tips.fbi.gov. Authorities are particularly interested in photos or videos from the campus or the suspect’s escape route through the residential neighborhood. “Every piece of information, no matter how small, could be the key to bringing this individual to justice,” Agent Bohls said.
Multiple crime scenes remain active, and forensic teams are working around the clock to process evidence. The FBI has deployed additional resources to the Salt Lake City field office
