Charlie Kirk assassination suspect evades manhunt as investigators recover rifle in wooded area
Share this @internewscast.com

Authorities are still searching for the individual responsible for the fatal shooting of conservative figure Charlie Kirk, who remains at large as of Thursday. Investigators have reported the discovery of a firearm and obtained clear video footage of the suspect, described as being of “college age.”

Kirk, who founded Turning Point USA, was hit by a bullet at around 12:20 p.m. local time on Wednesday during an appearance at Utah Valley University in Orem.

President Donald Trump announced Thursday that Kirk will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

“I want to share the deep sorrow and outrage felt by many Americans at the brutal murder of Charlie Kirk,” former President Trump expressed during a 9/11 memorial event. “Charlie was a prominent leader of his era, an advocate for freedom, and a motivator to millions. Our thoughts and prayers go to his cherished wife, Erika, and his wonderful children – they are extraordinary people. We deeply mourn his loss.”

“We have successfully retrieved what we believe to be the firearm used in the shooting incident yesterday. It’s identified as a high-powered bolt action rifle,” remarked an FBI spokesperson.

Charlie Kirk shooting scene

A deputy surveys the site at Utah Valley University following the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk on Thursday, September 11, 2025, in Orem, Utah.  (AP/Lindsey Wasson)

DPS said it initially took in George Zinn as a suspect, but later released him. Zinn was charged with obstruction by campus police. 

A second individual was then taken into custody, but he too was released following an interrogation by law enforcement, DPS added. 

“There are no current ties to the shooting with either of these individuals,” DPS said. 

The FBI is now asking the public to share any information, photos or videos they may have from the incident. 

“To ensure security, UVU PD stationed six officers at the event,” the Department of Public Safety reported. “These safety efforts were supplementary to Charlie Kirk’s own security team. About 3,000 attendees were present. The event took place in the university’s outdoor courtyard, a space used for gatherings. This is a sorrowful time for Utah and our nation.” 

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Disneynature's 'Orangutan' producer Roy Conli on finding the story and working with Josh Gad

Inside Disneynature’s ‘Orangutan’: Roy Conli Reveals Storytelling Secrets and Collaborating with Josh Gad

LOS ANGELES — In the lush canopies of Southeast Asia, a young…
Praising The Atlantic Exposes Flawed Journalism: Poynter Raves About Integrity, We Note the Problems

Critique of The Atlantic: Poynter Applauds Integrity Amidst Journalism Controversies

This week, the media landscape has been abuzz with a single story…
Idaho victims' families to address killer directly at Kohberger sentencing

Unveiling Idaho Murders: Shocking New Evidence and Legal Twist in the Kohberger Case

EXCLUSIVE: A newly released book sheds light on the potential defense strategy…
Mexico to beef up security at tourist sites after shooting at pyramids in lead up to World Cup

Mexico Enhances Tourist Site Security Following Pyramids Incident Ahead of World Cup

In response to a recent shooting at a popular tourist site, the…
Israeli soldiers caught smashing Jesus statue sentenced to 30 days in prison

Israeli Soldiers Sentenced to 30 Days for Vandalizing Jesus Statue: A Controversial Incident Unfolds

In response to international condemnation, two Israeli soldiers have been disciplined after…
USF doctoral students vanish as family says disappearance is 'very suspicious' and 'unusual'

Mysterious Disappearance of USF Doctoral Students Raises Alarms: Family Calls Situation ‘Very Suspicious

In a distressing turn of events, two doctoral students from the University…
Live Updates | Homes destroyed, residents evacuated due to wildfire in Brantley County, Georgia

Live Coverage: Wildfire Forces Evacuations and Destroys Homes in Brantley County, Georgia

An expansive wildfire along Highway 82 in Brantley County continues to pose…
Heartbreaking message from aunt of toddler horrifically sexually abused and slain by foster mother's son

Tragic Plea: Aunt Speaks Out After Toddler’s Heartbreaking Abuse and Murder in Foster Care

In a deeply moving tribute, the aunt of a toddler tragically lost…
Students crown Oklahoma hero principal prom king weeks after he stopped attempted school shooting

Oklahoma Principal Honored as Prom King by Students for Heroic Intervention in School Shooting Attempt

In a heartwarming twist, a routine prom night in a town southwest…
Buffalo Grove High School crash today: Crossing guard critically injured in crash near Dundee Road, students say

Buffalo Grove High School Incident: Critical Injuries Sustained by Crossing Guard in Collision Near Dundee Road, According to Students

In Buffalo Grove, Illinois, students at Buffalo Grove High School are receiving…
Zohran Mamdani finally addresses senseless killing of NYC teen after skipping vigil

NY Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani Breaks Silence on NYC Teen’s Tragic Death After Missing Community Vigil

In response to criticism over his initial silence regarding the tragic shooting…
Trump shakes up NY GOP with blockbuster endorsement for Elise Stefanik's seat

Trump’s Game-Changing Endorsement: NY GOP Reels as Elise Stefanik’s Seat Becomes Political Battleground

ALBANY – In a surprising move that could reshape the Republican primary…