The FBI has shared two images of a suspect linked to the shooting of conservative figure Charlie Kirk, as authorities requested additional details from the public.
The images depict an individual dressed in a hat, sunglasses, and a long-sleeved black top, and were also posted on X by the Utah Department of Public Safety.
On Thursday, officials reported that they had retrieved a powerful rifle from the location in Oren, Utah, in the United States, where Kirk was killed late Wednesday during an event held at a university campus.
Authorities believe the shooter leapt from a rooftop and escaped into a nearby area after firing a single shot directly into Kirk's neck during a discussion with students as part of an event organized by his youth group, Turning Point USA.
The individual responsible was thought to be around "college age" and is suspected of having mingled within the campus environment where Kirk was shot, according to officials.
Inquiries are still in progress to determine the attacker and the potential reasons for the unfortunate event.
The FBI is examining Kirk's assassination as an act of political violence.
" I can confirm this was a deliberate occurrence," stated Robert Bohls, the leading FBI agent in Salt Lake City.
Federal, state, and local agencies were collaborating on what they referred to as "multiple active crime scenes."
This marks a somber day for our state. It's a heartbreaking day for our country," said Utah Governor Spencer Cox. "I want to make it very clear that this is a political murder.
Two individuals were taken into custody on Wednesday, but no link to the shooting was established, leading to their release, as reported by authorities in public safety.
The events surrounding the shooting brought renewed focus to a growing risk of political violence in the United States, which has recently transcended traditional political lines.
The killing received strong domestic criticism from both Democratic and Republican representatives. International backlash also emerged in support of Kirk, as numerous European officials commented on the issue and denounced his assassination.
Videos shared on social media from Utah Valley University depict Kirk using a handheld microphone while seated under a white tent displaying the slogans "The American Comeback" and "Prove Me Wrong."
Audience were shocked when a gunshot was heard, followed by Kirk lifting his hands up as a significant amount of blood flowed from his neck.
His passing occurred only one day prior to Washington's planned commemoration of a significant milestone in its recent history — the 24th anniversary of the 11 September attacks on Thursday.
At a 9/11 remembrance ceremony held at the Pentagon, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his continued disbelief over Kirk's murder and commended his influence on conservative politics.
"Charlie was a towering figure of his era, a defender of freedom, and a source of motivation for countless individuals," Trump stated, mentioning that he would bestow the Presidential Medal of Freedom upon Kirk posthumously.