The FBI on Thursday released images of a person of interest in the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.
Authorities are seeking the public’s help in identifying the individual as the manhunt for the suspected shooter continues.
“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 FBI’s Salt Lake City office wrote on X, urging anyone with information to come forward.
The post included law enforcement images showing the suspect’s appearance and approximate age.
Kirk, 31, was addressing a packed audience of students when the attack occurred.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as campus security evacuated students and Kirk was quickly taken to safety by his staff.
University officials have coordinated with law enforcement to ensure the campus remains secure while the search for the suspect continues.
Authorities have been actively investigating for roughly 24 hours.
Shortly after the shooting, a person of interest was arrested but later released due to insufficient evidence.
A few hours later, FBI Director Kash Patel announced that another suspect had been taken into custody, who was also later released, drawing criticism from conservatives demanding swift accountability.
Investigators confirmed they possess “good video footage” of the suspect, which is being used to track movements and develop additional leads.
Resist the Mainstream reported earlier that authorities recovered the weapon used in the shooting, a .30-caliber bolt-action rifle, in a wooded area near the campus.
The firearm contained a spent cartridge in the chamber and three unspent rounds, each engraved with messages expressing “trans” and anti-fascist ideology.
Officials are examining the ammunition for forensic evidence that could shed light on the suspect’s motives and are reviewing campus surveillance footage to reconstruct the events leading up to the attack.
Kirk was the founder of Turning Point USA and a prominent conservative figure known for his work engaging young voters on college campuses.
His American Comeback Tour promoted conservative principles while challenging progressive narratives, making him a polarizing presence in national politics.
The shooting has intensified discussions about the safety of public figures involved in politically charged activism.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders, university officials, and the public.
Students and faculty expressed shock and grief, while Turning Point USA issued a statement denouncing the shooting and calling for justice.
University administrators reassured students that enhanced security measures are being implemented for future events and emphasized continued cooperation with law enforcement.
Social media users, particularly conservatives, voiced frustration over the initial arrests and subsequent releases of suspects, pressing for the swift identification of the shooter.
Officials continue to emphasize that the true suspect remains at large and the investigation is ongoing.
Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward to aid in bringing the perpetrator to justice.
