Investigation Continues into Assassination of Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk

Tue Oct 21 2025 21:46:23 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Law enforcement seeks public assistance as clues emerge from the assassination of Charlie Kirk during his speech at Utah Valley University.

Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist, was fatally shot during a speech at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Investigators are requesting the public's help while revealing clues from the crime scene, including a palm print, shoe impression, and a bolt-action rifle. A $100,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest, and state officials have condemned the attack as a targeted act amidst rising political violence across the U.S.

OREM, Utah (AP) — Authorities are searching for the individual responsible for the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot while speaking at Utah Valley University. Clues such as a palm print, shoe impression, and a high-powered rifle found in a nearby wooded area have been identified as key pieces of evidence.

The ongoing manhunt is now in its second day, with federal and state investigators having released photographs and video footage of a suspect believed to be responsible for the attack.

More than 7,000 tips have been received, yet no suspect has been identified, raising concerns that the incident marks yet another act of political violence in the increasingly polarized landscape of American politics.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox emphasized the need for public assistance in locating the shooter during a news conference with FBI Director Kash Patel. Meanwhile, two individuals taken into custody shortly after the shooting were cleared of involvement.

Authorities have described the bullet used in the crime as having been fired from a Mauser .30-caliber rifle, which was found along with multiple rounds of ammunition. The weapon is being examined by specialists at a federal lab.

Details of the Attack

The attack occurred in broad daylight, captured on video that has circulated online, showing Kirk being shot as he fielded questions regarding gun violence from the audience. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for justice, prompting offers of a $100,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Governor Cox has indicated he may seek the death penalty for the perpetrator.

Political figures, including former President Donald Trump, have publicly condemned the violence, with Trump awarding Kirk posthumously the Presidential Medal of Freedom, acknowledging his influence among conservative youth.

The event at the university was part of Kirk’s “American Comeback Tour,” and had already generated significant controversy, as evidenced by an online petition calling for its cancellation.

As the investigation unfolds, attendees of the event who witnessed the tragedy have recounted their experiences, with some barricading themselves in classrooms as they sought safety from potential further violence.

Authorities have stated that the shooter, who they believe was able to blend into the campus crowd due to a young appearance, escaped the scene immediately following the shooting.

Concerns regarding safety persist in the wake of this shocking attack, highlighting the growing issue of political violence in America, as citizens and political leaders alike grapple with the implications of such tragedies.