FBI Releases Video of Suspect in Charlie Kirk Assassination at Utah Valley University

Orem, Utah – September 12, 2025 – The FBI has released video footage and images of a person of interest in the murder of conservative activist and Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot on September 10, 2025, during a speaking event at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem, Utah. The 31-year-old Kirk was killed by a single gunshot to the neck while addressing a crowd of approximately 3,000 at an outdoor “prove me wrong” debate table, part of his “American Comeback Tour.” Authorities have labeled the incident a “targeted attack” and a possible “political assassination,” with evidence pointing to ideological motivations.

The Incident

The shooting occurred at approximately 12:23 p.m. MDT on September 10, 2025, about 20 minutes into Kirk’s speech. Livestream footage and eyewitness accounts captured the moment: Kirk was responding to a question about “transgender shootings and mass shootings” when a single shot rang out, striking him in the neck. He slumped in his chair, blood visible, as staff rushed to his aid and the crowd scattered in panic amid screams. Kirk was transported to Timpanogos Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Utah Governor Spencer Cox condemned the act as a “political assassination,” while Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason described it as a deliberate and targeted attack.

The Shooter’s Actions and Escape

Authorities believe the shooter fired from an elevated position on the rooftop of the nearby Losee Center building, approximately 430 feet from the outdoor stage. Despite security guards positioned in front of Kirk, the distant vantage point allowed the shooter to bypass immediate security measures. FBI-released video footage shows the suspect, described as a “college-age” individual, jumping from the rooftop, landing on the ground, and fleeing on foot across a road toward a wooded area near the university.

Additional footage, including security and doorbell camera recordings obtained by media outlets like TMZ, provides further details. Approximately 30 minutes before the shooting, around 11:49 a.m., the person of interest was seen walking toward UVU, possibly concealing a long gun within their clothing. The individual exhibited a noticeable limp or awkward gait, which may aid in identification. Post-shooting footage captures the same person running north through a neighborhood and into the wooded area, consistent with the confirmed escape route. The FBI has urged the public to submit tips via 1-800-CALL-FBI or their digital media portal, emphasizing the suspect’s potential danger and the need for swift identification.

Evidence Recovered

Investigators have collected critical evidence from the crime scene:

• Rooftop Trace Evidence: Shoe impressions, a forearm imprint, and a palm print were recovered from the rooftop of the Losee Center, where the shooter is believed to have positioned themselves. These items are undergoing DNA and identification analysis to narrow down suspects.
• Weapon and Ammunition: In the wooded area along the suspect’s escape path, authorities recovered an older-model imported Mauser .30-06 caliber bolt-action rifle, wrapped in a towel. The rifle contained a spent cartridge still chambered and three unfired rounds in its top-fed magazine. Notably, all cartridges were engraved with expressions tied to transgender and antifascist ideologies, suggesting a potential motive rooted in ideological opposition to Kirk’s conservative activism. The firearm and ammunition are being analyzed for DNA, fingerprints, and ballistic evidence by the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). An emergency trace is underway to determine the rifle’s importer and ownership history.

Investigation and Community Response

The investigation, led jointly by the FBI and the Utah State Bureau of Investigation with support from the ATF and local law enforcement, has generated significant leads. Over 200 interviews have been conducted, and the FBI has received thousands of public tips—the most since the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing investigation. Two individuals were briefly detained but released after no connections to the crime were established. UVU has suspended classes and events, remaining closed through the weekend as the manhunt continues.

No suspect has been named or arrested as of September 12, 2025, but authorities are focusing on the person of interest’s physical description and escape route captured in the footage. The individual’s college-age appearance and ability to blend in with students prior to the event suggest they may have ties to the university or local community.

Nationwide, vigils have been held to honor Kirk, a prominent Trump ally and influential conservative voice. A rosary prayer vigil at Timpanogos Regional Hospital drew hundreds, reflecting Kirk’s impact as a vocal advocate for conservative causes. Public figures, including former President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, have condemned the killing, with Trump calling it a “stain on our nation” and Vance describing Kirk as a “patriot who spoke truth.”

Broader Context and Implications

Kirk’s assassination has reignited debates over political violence and polarization in the United States. His outspoken criticism of progressive ideologies, including transgender rights and what he termed “woke” culture, made him a polarizing figure. The engravings on the recovered ammunition suggest the shooter may have been motivated by opposition to Kirk’s views, though investigators have not yet confirmed a definitive motive.

The FBI and local authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in apprehending the suspect. As the investigation progresses, the release of additional footage and forensic analysis of the collected evidence may provide critical breakthroughs in identifying and capturing the individual responsible for this high-profile killing.

For updates or to provide tips, contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or visit their digital media portal. The nation watches closely as law enforcement works to bring justice in this tragic case.