US President Donald Trump confirmed Friday that officials apprehended the man accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Trump said on Fox News he learned of the arrest minutes before his appearance and expressed strong confidence in custody.
Reports indicated someone close to the alleged shooter revealed their location, which guided law enforcement to the suspect.
Investigators Release Footage and Evidence
The FBI and Utah police released video Thursday showing a suspect fleeing after Kirk’s assassination on campus.
Footage captured a person in sunglasses, Converse shoes, and a black shirt with an American flag and eagle.
The suspect ran across a roof, dropped to the ground, crossed a busy street, and vanished into nearby woods.
Police later recovered a high-powered rifle they believe the gunman used to shoot Kirk at Utah Valley University.
Authorities also collected shoe imprints, palm marks, and possible DNA from the building where the suspect jumped.
Public Tips Drive Investigation Forward
Utah Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason said over 7,000 leads poured in, the largest since the Boston bombing.
Mason described the suspect as “college-aged” and admitted police remain uncertain if they fled Utah or remain nearby.
Officials released more images showing the suspect with a backpack, climbing a stairwell, and blending into the campus.
The FBI offered $100,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of Kirk’s killer.
Political and Public Reaction Intensifies
Utah Governor Spencer Cox vowed prosecutors would pursue the death penalty once the suspect faces charges.
Kirk’s assassination during his “American Comeback Tour” sparked bipartisan condemnation and deepened fears of political violence.
Trump said he felt “concerned for our country” and promised relentless pursuit of justice for Kirk’s murder.
