Charlie Kirk Shooting: Manhunt Underway as FBI Releases New Suspect Video

A manhunt is underway for the suspect in the fatal shooting of prominent conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The 31-year-old co-founder of Turning Point USA was fatally shot on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, while speaking at a campus event at Utah Valley University. The brazen attack, which has been called a “political assassination” by Utah Governor Spencer Cox, has led to a massive federal investigation and a plea to the public for assistance.

New Video and a Desperate Plea for Help

In a press conference on Thursday night, officials released new surveillance video of the suspected shooter fleeing the scene. The video, along with six images released earlier in the day, is a key part of the ongoing investigation. The FBI is offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the person responsible.

Despite receiving more than 7,000 tips from the public, law enforcement is urging for more help. “We need as much help as we can possibly get,” said Governor Cox. Beau Mason, head of Utah’s Department of Public Safety, conceded that authorities have “no idea” where the shooter might be.

The gunman is described as a “college-age” male who “blended in well” with students at the event. He was seen wearing a black T-shirt with a US flag and eagle on it, blue jeans, and blue Converse sneakers.

How the Attack Unfolded

The fatal shooting occurred while Kirk was addressing a crowd of some 3,000 people at an open-air event. He was participating in his signature “Prove Me Wrong” debate when a single shot rang out, striking him in the neck. Chilling videos from the event show Kirk collapsing, as the crowd reacts in terror and confusion.

The hunt for Kirk’s killer took several twists and turns in the hours following the shooting. Initially, two individuals were detained by law enforcement but were later released after being cleared of any connection to the shooting.

Authorities have recovered a high-powered, bolt-action rifle from a nearby wooded area. They believe this is the weapon that was used in the “targeted” attack that left Kirk dead. Investigators also collected a palm print and a shoe impression from the scene, which are being analyzed.

A Nation in Mourning

The political world was shaken by the tragic news. Just hours after the shooting, President Trump announced Kirk’s death on Truth Social, praising him as “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk.” Trump later announced that he would posthumously award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha, traveled to Utah to meet with Kirk’s family.

Kirk’s body was transported to Arizona, where he lived with his family, on Air Force Two. President Trump and Vice President JD Vance have both stated they plan to attend Kirk’s funeral, which is expected to be held next weekend.