Authorities Remain Without Suspect in Fatal Shooting of Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk at Utah University
Sept 10 (Reuters) — Authorities in the United States have yet to take anyone into custody in connection with the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, despite a series of conflicting statements from officials about the tragic incident at Utah Valley University.
The shooting occurred around 12:20 p.m. Mountain Time (1820 GMT) on the university’s campus in Orem, Utah, near Salt Lake City. Kirk, 31, was addressing a large outdoor crowd when he was shot. Authorities have described the shooting as “believed to be a targeted attack,” with early reports indicating that the assailant may have fired from the roof of a nearby building. However, law enforcement officials have refrained from providing further details to avoid compromising the ongoing investigation.
The Utah Department of Public Safety confirmed in a statement that multiple agencies, including the FBI, the Utah County Attorney’s office, and local law enforcement, were all working together to investigate the crime. The statement further emphasized that the situation remains an active investigation, and authorities are piecing together the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
In an initial press conference, Utah Governor Spencer Cox mentioned that law enforcement was interviewing a “person of interest” in connection with the case. This comment was followed by a contradictory statement from Beau Mason, the Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner, who confirmed that the suspect had not been captured and was still at large. These conflicting reports have added to the confusion surrounding the case.
FBI Director Kash Patel later took to social media to clarify that a suspect had been briefly detained for questioning but was ultimately released. “Our investigation continues,” Patel stated, urging the public to remain patient as law enforcement officials continue to gather evidence.
Local officials have refrained from speculating on potential motives or releasing the identity of any individuals involved. However, law enforcement sources suggest that the nature of the attack points to a premeditated action, given the position of the shooter and the targeted nature of the assault.
Kirk, known for his outspoken conservative views and as the founder of the nonprofit Turning Point USA, had been speaking at the university as part of a larger outreach effort. His death has sent shockwaves through political circles, with many figures offering their condolences and calling for a thorough investigation.
At this stage, investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward, and they are exploring all possible leads. The university has canceled upcoming events as police continue to comb the campus for clues.
As the investigation develops, authorities have vowed to provide updates but warned that due to the ongoing nature of the case, details may remain scarce for the time being. With no suspect currently in custody, the question of who is responsible for this shocking act of violence remains unanswered.
