US
Charlie Kirk: Suspect believed to be male ‘of college age’ but his location still unknown, FBI says
The suspect in the killing of Charlie Kirk has been confirmed as a male who “appears to be of college age”, authorities have said, as a manhunt continues.
In a briefing in Orem, Utah, on Thursday, FBI agent Robert Bohls said while authorities are not sure where or how far the suspect may have gone, they have pictures of his face which they may release in the future.
Kirk, a right-wing influencer, was shot dead on Wednesday while hosting a debate among university students. He died in hospital after being shot, authorities said.
Follow the latest updates on Charlie Kirk’s killing
Beau Mason, commissioner of the Department of Public Safety, said the suspect “appears to be of college age” and “blended in well with a college institution”.
“We are confident in our abilities to track that individual,” he added.
“If we’re unsuccessful in identifying them immediately, we will reach out for the public’s help and the media’s help in pushing those photos.”
Mr Mason reiterated “we are doing everything we can to find him”, but added: “We’re not sure how far he has gone yet”.
The weapon suspected of being used in the shooting has been found.
Mr Bohls said: “I can tell you that we have recovered what we believe is the weapon that was used in yesterday’s shooting… is a high-powered bolt action rifle.
“That rifle was recovered in a wooded area where the shooter had fled. The FBI laboratory will be analysing this weapon.”
Mr Bohls added that they also found an “impression of a palm print and forearm imprints for analysis”.
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Kirk, a Trump faithful, was used to scores of people listening to him, both in person and online, as he advocated for conservatism among younger generations and became a leading voice in the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement.
President Donald Trump paid tribute to Kirk while on stage at a 9/11 memorial event in Virginia, saying he would be awarding him the presidential medal of freedom.
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“Before we begin, let me express the horror and grief so many Americans at the heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk have felt,” Mr Trump said.
“Charlie was a giant of his generation, a champion of liberty and an inspiration to millions and millions of people. Our prayers are with his wonderful wife, Erika, and his beautiful children.”
The president said “we miss him greatly” and added that he has no doubt his voice and “the courage he put into the hearts of countless people will live on”.