All We Know About the Alleged Suspect of Murder of Charlie Kirk

The FBI has released a photo of a man, described as "a person of interest," believed to have assassinated conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, intensifying a nationwide manhunt as investigators piece together the gunman's movements before and after the shooting.

The suspect, described as college-aged, allegedly blended in with students before climbing onto the roof of the Losee Center and firing a single shot that struck Kirk, 31, in the neck as he addressed a Turning Point USA event. The photo, circulated Thursday afternoon, shows a figure dressed in dark clothing with tactical-style gear, confirming witness descriptions from the chaotic scene.

What the FBI Says

Investigators revealed the shooter was wearing black tactical gear, including a helmet, mask, and vest, and may have been carrying a bolt-action rifle. That weapon was later recovered in a wooded area where the suspect fled. Forensic teams also collected footprints, palm prints, and forearm imprints, now under review at FBI labs.

"We have released this photo to assist the public," FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls said. "Anyone who recognizes this individual or has video of the incident should contact law enforcement immediately. Every lead is being pursued."

Authorities confirmed the shooter fired from an elevated rooftop about 200 yards from the tented courtyard where Kirk was speaking. After the attack, the suspect reportedly jumped from the roof, ran through nearby buildings, and disappeared into surrounding neighborhoods.

Utah Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason said the shooter appeared to plan the escape carefully, using stairwells and cover points to vanish within minutes.

Ongoing Manhunt

The FBI has received more than 130 tips since Wednesday's assassination. Officials say the attack was targeted and that the suspect deliberately chose a long-range vantage point. "This was not random. This was an assassination," Gov. Spencer Cox said.

The release of the suspect photo marks the first major breakthrough in the case, as agents and local police continue to canvass homes and businesses near the university.

Kirk's death has drawn bipartisan condemnation and renewed concern about political violence in the United States. President Donald Trump has called the killing "a despicable act against a great patriot" and announced that Kirk will be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor.

For investigators, however, the priority remains urgent: identify and capture the shooter before he can strike again.