Thu Sep 11 17:30:00 UTC 2025: **Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk Assassinated; Manhunt Underway**
**OREM, UT -** A massive manhunt is underway for the shooter who fatally shot prominent conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Wednesday during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University. The FBI has released images of a “person of interest” and is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
Authorities have tracked the suspect’s movements and recovered a high-powered rifle believed to be the weapon used in the shooting. The rifle was found in a wooded area near where the shooter fled. Sources say phrases related to cultural issues were scrawled on the rifle and ammunition, but investigators have not yet determined if these markings reveal a motive. The suspect is described as a male who “appears to be of college age.” Dispatch recordings describe him as wearing all black clothing, including a tactical helmet and vest, and carrying a black long gun.
Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was a key figure in mobilizing young conservative voters and had a direct line to former President Donald Trump. Trump, who credits Kirk with mobilizing young conservatives, announced that he will posthumously award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He also plans to speak with Kirk’s family.
The assassination has sparked discussions on political rhetoric and security. Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin cautioned against “gaslighting the base” and stirring up political tensions, while Democratic Rep. Josh Gottheimer called for a lowering of political temperature and a return to civil discourse. House Speaker Mike Johnson said he spoke with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries to discuss lowering political rhetoric and what further options Congress has to give members additional security. House Oversight Chair James Comer suggested lawmakers should stop holding events outside. Utah Valley University will be closed until Monday, offering mental health resources to students and staff.
President Trump blamed the “radical left” for Kirk’s death, drawing criticism from Democratic lawmakers. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called Trump’s remarks “an irresponsible action.” Other lawmakers expressed concern about the increasing pace of political violence and called for unity.
The US State Department will take action, including revoking visas, against foreigners in the United States “praising, rationalizing, or making light of” Charlie Kirk’s death.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities analyzing the recovered rifle, footwear impressions, palm prints, and forearm imprints. Officials said they have “good video” of the suspect and are using advanced AI-driven software to identify him.
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