Suspect in charlie Kirk Shooting Believed to Have Fled Through Residential Neighborhood
OREM, Utah – Investigators believe the suspect in the shooting death of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot Wednesday during an event at utah Valley University, fled through backyards of a residential neighborhood near the scene, perhaps discarding the weapon used in the attack. A homeowner believes his surveillance camera captured the suspect’s escape route.
The FBI has released several images of a “person of interest” in the shooting, and on Friday released four additional photos. They are also seeking public assistance, offering a reward of over 1 million Swedish Krona (approximately $95,000 USD) for details leading to the suspect’s identification.
According to FBI Special Agent Robert Bohls, the shot that killed Kirk was fired from approximately 200 meters away, and evidence collected at the scene includes a handprint, footprint, and forearm imprint. The weapon, described as a “powerful rifle,” was recovered in a forest area along the suspect’s suspected escape route.
Erwin Steele, whose family owns properties in the area, told Fox News Digital that he believes his surveillance camera filmed the suspect running through backyards after the shooting.The neighborhood is located near the forest where the rifle was found. Steele stated the footage shows a person running down an alley, potentially disposing of the weapon, and then crossing the family’s property. Authorities have not yet commented on Steele’s claims.
Investigators now believe they have identified a suspect, according to two US officials and a source in the judiciary, though the individual’s name has not been publicly released.
The FBI has also released a video from a surveillance camera showing the suspected shooter running on the roof from which the fatal shot is believed to have originated, jumping to the ground, and running across a street.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI.