UPDATE: The accused assasin is currently in custody. Turned in by his father.
A disturbing new video released by the FBI has captured the suspect believed to be responsible for the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, making a daring escape from Utah Valley University. The footage, taken from campus security cameras, was made public on Thursday night by the FBI in conjunction with the Utah Department of Public Safety during a press conference that offered no new updates on arrests or confirmed leads.
In the chilling footage, the suspect, clad entirely in black, is observed running across the roof of a campus building shortly after the fatal attack occurred. The individual then appears to skillfully scale down from the roof's edge to the ground, proceeding to walk casually through a parking lot before entering a wooded area. According to investigators, the man left behind the weapon used in the attack as he entered the wooded section of the campus, along with a palm impression and other smudges that forensic experts are currently analyzing to extract DNA in hopes of narrowing the search for the assailant.
This case has provoked an immense response, with authorities reporting over 7,000 tips received—the most since the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing investigation. The FBI has offered a substantial $100,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest in a fervent effort to encourage public cooperation.
The assassination of Kirk sent shockwaves through the nation as the conservative figure was known for his "Prove Me Wrong" debates, which often attracted both supporters and critics alike. The assassination occurred on Wednesday afternoon while Kirk was speaking at an event at the university. Witnesses described hearing a gunshot that struck Kirk in the neck, causing him to collapse and bleed profusely, leading to his untimely death despite immediate medical attention.
Earlier reports from TMZ revealed additional footage showing the suspect, matching the FBI's description, heading towards the Utah Valley University campus. The suspect was seen walking with a slight limp, which led to speculation that he may have been concealing the rifle under his clothing. The FBI has since continued to release photos of the person of interest and is working closely with law enforcement partners to bring the perpetrator to justice.
As this case unfolds, the public’s role in providing tips and information becomes increasingly critical. The FBI's plea for help reflects the urgency and gravity of the situation. While the motive behind the assassination remains unclear, the brazen nature of the attack has heightened concerns about safety and security on college campuses and at public events.
The loss of Charlie Kirk has left many in the conservative community mourning, and the hunt for his killer is a somber reminder of the vulnerability of public figures in today's volatile climate. As the investigation continues, the FBI remains steadfast in its commitment to seeking justice, relying heavily on public assistance to bring closure to this tragic event.
