Federal investigators revealed how the person who assassinated Charlie Kirk managed to vanish from the scene after opening fire, raising new concerns about security and escape tactics used in public political events.
The FBI confirmed that the gunman fired a single round from a rooftop approximately 200 yards from the former Turning Point USA co-founder. The shooter then fled into an adjacent wooded area, abandoning a high-powered bolt-action rifle that has since been recovered. Authorities are analyzing the weapon and various forensic evidence.
Retired FBI agent James Gagliano suggested that the location was purposefully chosen to enable a swift disappearance. He noted there was an open-air parking lot behind the rooftop building, possibly allowing the shooter to be "miles away" within minutes. New York Post
Echoing that view, Utah Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason confirmed that investigators mapped the shooter's movements. According to Mason, the suspect arrived on campus, accessed a roof by stairwell or elevator, fired the shot, then jumped to the other side of the building and disappeared into a nearby neighborhood.
Person of Interest Status, No Arrest Yet
Authorities initially detained two people of interest following the attack. Both were later released after interviewing, with officials stating neither had ties to the shooting. The FBI and local law enforcement continue the manhunt, describing the attack as targeted.
Kirk, aged 31, was shot in the neck at mid-day while addressing a crowd of about 3,000 during a university event titled "Prove Me Wrong" on September 10, 2025. Despite attending with security, he was hit almost immediately after responding to a question about gun violence.
In addition to the rifle, FBI agents recovered footprint impressions, a palm print, and forearm imprints that may help track the shooter. Authorities say they are reviewing surveillance and cell phone video footage but have not yet released images of the suspect.
The shooter is believed to be college-age and dressed to blend in on the campus.
Political and Security Fallout
Kirk, a conservative commentator and ally of former President Trump, has become a martyr figure for many on the right. President Trump denounced the violence and announced he will award Kirk a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The attack has sparked intense debate over security at political events, especially on college campuses. Officials warn that the shooter's escape plan, paired with insufficient early detection and broken public statements about arrests, further damages public trust.
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