The FBI has released photos of a new person of interest in the assassination of Charlie Kirk, who was gunned down during a public speaking event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
The images show a thin man in jeans, a long-sleeved black shirt with an American flag design, dark sunglasses, and a hat. Authorities say he is connected to the sniper attack that killed the 31-year-old conservative activist.
Investigators said Thursday that they traced the gunman’s escape route and recovered a “high-powered, bolt-action rifle.” FBI Salt Lake City Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls added that they also collected foot, palm, and forearm imprints linked to the crime.
The news came after authorities made two separate announcements about suspects in custody, only to later release both individuals. The actual killer remains at large.
The attack happened around 12:20 p.m. local time, just 20 minutes into Kirk’s speech. Dispatch audio described a suspect “wearing all black, black long gun, black tactical helmet, a black mask, possibly wearing a tactical vest and jeans.”
Officials say the sniper arrived shortly before noon and gained access to a rooftop through a stairwell. After firing, he jumped from the building and disappeared into a nearby neighborhood as police canvassed for video evidence.
Kirk, a father of two and the founder of Turning Point USA, was rushed away by security but did not survive his injuries. President Donald Trump was the first to confirm his death, writing on Truth Social, “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead … Charlie, we love you!”
The shooting drew a crowd of panic and chaos among the more than 3,000 people in attendance. Video showed Kirk slump over after being struck, while attendees screamed and scattered for cover as the sniper fled.