Search Continues for the Suspect in the Murder of Prominent Personality
The search for the individual involved in the tragic murder of a renowned figure, Charlie Kirk, is still ongoing. A recently released video clip of the supposed culprit has added more fuel to the ongoing investigation.
Key Details from the Video
In this newly obtained footage, which was presented at a recent press conference, the alleged shooter can be seen descending from a building's rooftop at Utah Valley University. This is the location where the deadly shot was supposedly fired before the suspect fled the scene.
A reward of up to $100,000 is being offered for any information that leads to the identification and capture of the person behind Kirk's murder.
Released Photos and the Manhunt
Photos of the potential suspect have also been shared by Utah officials. The person of interest was spotted on a set of stairs carrying a black backpack, and wearing a shirt that seems to display an American flag design.
With more than 7,000 tips and leads received and over 200 interviews conducted, authorities are tirelessly pursuing the individual responsible, believed to be of college-age.
Recovery of the Possible Murder Weapon
Officials have also noted the recovery of what they believe to be the murder weapon. A "high-powered bolt action rifle" was found in a wooded area close to the shooting site. The rifle, an older model imported Mauser .30-06 caliber bolt action rifle wrapped in a towel, seems to align with the suspect's escape route.
Interestingly, the spent cartridge was still chambered and three unspent cartridges contained markings described by some officials as "transgender and anti-fascist". The significance of these markings is currently unknown, and it is not clear whether they were intended to mislead the investigation.
Timeline of the Tragic Event
As per the timeline of events provided, the suspect arrived at the Orem campus at around noon on the day of the incident. They then proceeded to ascend the stairwells of a building close to the outdoor event, where they allegedly shot at Kirk from the rooftop.
Kirk was hit by a single shot roughly twenty minutes later and was rushed to a hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Post-Shooting Actions and Ongoing Investigation
Following the heart-wrenching incident, the alleged shooter reportedly escaped to the other side of the building, jumped off, and fled into a nearby neighborhood. Authorities are investigating the surrounding neighborhoods, consulting individuals with doorbell cameras, and interviewing witnesses in an effort to identify any viable leads.
A strong message was sent out to the perpetrator: "We will find you. We will try you, and we will hold you accountable to the furthest extent of the law." It was also stated that if the case goes to trial, state officials are prepared to seek the death penalty.