OREM, Utah – FBI Director Kash Patel announced that the suspected gunman is in custody after Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and close ally of President Donald Trump, was shot and killed Wednesday at a Utah college event—an incident that has drawn renewed attention to the threat of political violence across the United States.
The death was announced on social media by Trump, who praised the 31-year-old Kirk, the co-founder and CEO of the youth organization Turning Point USA, as “Great, and even Legendary.”
RELATED: Live Updates: Charlie Kirk shot dead at Utah college event, Trump says
Videos posted to social media show Kirk speaking into a handheld microphone while sitting under a white tent emblazoned with the slogan “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong.” A single shot rings out and Kirk can be seen reaching for his neck with his right hand. Stunned spectators can be heard gasping and screaming before people start to run away.
Earlier, a person who was taken into custody by law enforcement at the university where Kirk was speaking was not the suspect
Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, throws hats to the public. Turning Point USA founder and American conservative political activist, Charlie Kirk sets up in UC San Diego’s Town Square fielding rapid-fire questions from students and communit
What they’re saying:
“The subject for the horrific shooting today that took the life of Charlie Kirk is now in custody,” FBI Director Kash Patel said on social media.
RELATED: Who is Charlie Kirk? Political activist killed at Utah Valley University, Trump confirms
UPDATE: Officials have person of interest in custody
After much confusion over who might be detained over the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the FBI announced they have a person of interest in custody, who is separate from the first person reportedly arrested during the shooting today.
What we know about the suspected gunman
What we know:
According to FOX News, an official said the suspected assassin of Charlie Kirk was “dressed in all dark clothing” and that the single shot may have been fired from a rooftop.
RELATED: What is Turning Point USA? Charlie Kirk’s nonprofit
What we don’t know:
Authorities have not revealed the suspect’s identity or motive.
This story is developing. Check back for updates.
The Source: The information in this story comes from official statements, social media posts, and eyewitness accounts. This story was reported from Los Angeles.
