FBI Recovers Firearm, Has Clear Images of Kirk's Assassin

Major Breakthrough in Charlie Kirk Murder Investigation

The FBI has made significant progress in the investigation into the assassination of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed yesterday at Utah Valley University. Federal authorities have recovered what they believe to be the murder weapon and obtained clear surveillance footage of the suspected shooter.

Weapon Recovery and Investigation Details

During a press conference, FBI officials announced they discovered a firearm near the university campus where Kirk was fatally shot while delivering a speech. The weapon, found in close proximity to the crime scene, is undergoing ballistic testing to confirm it was used in the shooting.

Beau Mason, Utah's Security Chief, revealed that investigators have obtained high-quality images of the suspected assailant through various surveillance systems, including doorbell cameras in the surrounding neighborhood. "We have good footage of the individual we believe is responsible for this horrific act," Mason stated during the briefing.

Shooter's Movements Tracked

Investigators have meticulously reconstructed the shooter's path across campus. The individual entered the university grounds, ascended to a rooftop position, fired the fatal shot that struck Kirk in the neck, then fled by jumping from the building and disappearing into a residential area.

The FBI has also collected physical evidence including a shoe print, hand print, and forearm impression believed to belong to the shooter. Facial recognition technology is being applied to the surveillance footage as part of the manhunt.

Suspect Description and Investigation Status

Authorities described the suspect as being of "student age," which allowed him to blend in with the campus population. The FBI has received approximately 130 tips from the public but has not released the suspect's physical description or the surveillance footage to avoid compromising the investigation.

Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA and prominent Trump ally, was known for his controversial conservative activism and campus speaking tours. His organization, Turning Point USA, focused on promoting conservative values on college campuses across America.

The assassination has sparked intense political reactions across the United States, highlighting the deep divisions in American politics. Investigators continue to pursue all leads in what they describe as one of the highest-priority cases in recent memory.