A nationwide manhunt is underway for the gunman who fatally shot conservative activist Charlie Kirk with a rifle during a college event in Utah on Wednesday, an attack that has shocked the United States and reignited fears over rising political violence.
Authorities recovered the rifle used in the killing, along with a screwdriver believed to have been used to assemble or modify the weapon, and found phrases linked to cultural and political issues scrawled on both the firearm and its ammunition.
The shooter, described as a man of college age, remains at large, and officials have yet to determine a motive.
The FBI released photos of the suspect on Thursday and announced a $100,000 reward for information leading to his arrest, urging the public to come forward with any tips.
President Donald Trump mourned Kirk as “a giant of his generation” and pledged to posthumously award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. “Charlie was a champion of liberty and an inspiration to millions,” Trump said during a September 11 remembrance ceremony. “We miss him deeply, but his courage and voice will live on.”
The award ceremony is expected to draw “a very big crowd” to celebrate Kirk’s life, Trump added.
Condemnations poured in across the political spectrum. Vice President Kamala Harris called the shooting “deeply disturbing,” adding, “Political violence has no place in America.”
Senator Bernie Sanders described the attack as “horrifying” and urged unity against extremism.
In response to the killing, lawmakers are debating new security measures for town halls and campus events. Deputy Secretary of State Chris Landau warned that foreigners who glorify or trivialize the assassination risk losing their visas.
“Violence and hatred have no place in this country,” he said, instructing consular officials to monitor social media activity related to the case.
Charlie Kirk’s life and legacy
Kirk, 31, co-founded Turning Point USA in 2012, transforming it into one of the most influential conservative youth movements in the U.S. Active in Republican politics from his teenage years, he later hosted The Charlie Kirk Show, advocating for limited government, gun rights, and immigration restrictions.
A close ally of Donald Trump, Kirk led outreach to Generation Z voters and chaired Students for Trump in 2019.
Friends and supporters remember him as an energetic strategist whose passion and vision inspired young conservatives nationwide.
