US President Donald Trump announced Friday that officials apprehended the suspected gunman who killed Charlie Kirk in Utah.
Trump said on Fox television that he learned of the arrest only minutes before his appearance on the show.
Reports said an associate of the alleged shooter disclosed details about the suspect’s location, leading to the arrest.
Investigators Release Key Evidence
FBI and Utah police shared surveillance video Thursday showing a suspect fleeing after Kirk’s killing on a college campus.
The footage revealed a person in sunglasses, Converse shoes, and a black shirt with an eagle and flag.
The individual ran across a rooftop, leapt down, crossed a street, and disappeared into nearby woods.
Police discovered a high-powered rifle in that area, which investigators believe was the murder weapon.
Authorities also collected shoe imprints, palm and forearm marks, fingerprints, and possible DNA from the building edge.
Officials said the suspect blended easily into campus surroundings and appeared to be of college age.
Public Tips Drive Investigation
Utah Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason confirmed more than 7,000 tips, the most since the Boston Marathon bombing.
Mason admitted police still tracked leads both in Utah and out of state before confirming the arrest.
The FBI had offered $100,000 for information leading to the killer’s capture and identification.
Reactions to Kirk’s Death
Governor Spencer Cox vowed prosecutors would pursue the death penalty once the trial begins.
Kirk died after being shot while answering a question on gun violence during an event at Utah Valley University.
The assassination prompted condemnation from Republicans and Democrats, raising concerns about growing political violence in America.
President Trump expressed grief, saying the killing left him deeply worried about the nation’s future.
