The FBI intensifies its investigation into the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. New CCTV footage shows the suspect fleeing the scene, and authorities urge the public to assist in identifying the shooter.

Charlie Kirk Assassination: FBI Investigates Leads, Releases CCTV of Suspect’s Escape

Overview of the Incident

On September 10, 2025, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The shooting occurred around 12:20 p.m. MDT during the “American Comeback Tour” organized by Turning Point USA. Kirk was struck in the neck and later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. The incident has been described as a targeted assassination, sparking national outrage and bipartisan condemnation.

FBI’s Response and Investigation

In the aftermath of the shooting, the FBI launched an extensive investigation, receiving over 7,000 tips from the public. Authorities have released new CCTV footage showing the suspect, described as a college-aged male wearing a black cap, sunglasses, and a shirt featuring the American flag and an eagle. The footage captures the individual fleeing the scene across a rooftop, scaling down to the ground, and walking through a parking lot before entering a wooded area and discarding the weapon used in the shooting.

The FBI has recovered a high-powered bolt-action rifle believed to be the murder weapon, along with a palm print, shoe print, and forearm impressions. Despite these efforts, no suspect has been identified, and the motive remains unclear. A $100,000 reward has been offered for information leading to the identification and arrest of the shooter.

Public Appeal and Ongoing Investigation

Utah Governor Spencer Cox and FBI Director Kash Patel have urged the public to come forward with any information that could assist in the investigation. Governor Cox has labeled the killing a “political assassination” and emphasized the intent to seek the death penalty if the suspect is caught. The FBI continues to analyze the recovered evidence and pursue numerous leads in the ongoing manhunt.

Social Media Speculation and Unverified Claims

Following the release of the CCTV footage, social media platforms have been abuzz with speculation regarding the identity of the suspect. Some users have suggested that the individual resembles Skye Valadez, a Utah-based digital music artist, due to perceived physical similarities and a now-deleted SoundCloud track titled “Charlie Kirk Dead at 31” uploaded weeks before the incident. However, these claims remain unverified, and the FBI has not confirmed any connection between Valadez and the case.

National Reactions and Tributes

The assassination of Charlie Kirk has elicited strong reactions from political figures across the United States. Former President Donald Trump announced that Kirk would receive a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom, praising his contributions to the conservative movement. Vice President JD Vance transported Kirk’s casket to Arizona and attended the funeral. Memorials and vigils have been held in honor of Kirk, with attendees calling for unity and an end to political violence.

As the investigation into the assassination of Charlie Kirk continues, authorities are urging the public to provide any information that could lead to the identification and capture of the suspect. The release of new CCTV footage has brought the case into sharper focus, but the motive behind the killing remains a critical question. The FBI and local law enforcement agencies are working diligently to bring those responsible to justice.

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