Charlie Kirk: Suspect believed to be male ‘of college age’ but his location still unknown, FBI says | US News

The suspect in the killing of Charlie Kirk has been confirmed as a male who “appears to be of college age”, authorities have said, as a manhunt continues. 

In a briefing in Orem, Utah, on Thursday, FBI agent Robert Bohls said while authorities are not sure where or how far the suspect may have gone, they have pictures of his face which they may release in the future.

Kirk, a right-wing influencer, was shot dead on Wednesday while hosting a debate among university students. He died in hospital after being shot, authorities said.

Beau Mason, commissioner of the Department of Public Safety, said the suspect “appears to be of college age” and “blended in well with a college institution”.

“We are confident in our abilities to track that individual,” he added.

“If we’re unsuccessful in identifying them immediately, we will reach out for the public’s help and the media’s help in pushing those photos.”

Mr Mason reiterated “we are doing everything we can to find him”, but added: “We’re not sure how far he has gone yet”.

The weapon suspected of being used in the shooting has been found.

Mr Bohls said: “I can tell you that we have recovered what we believe is the weapon that was used in yesterday’s shooting… is a high-powered bolt action rifle.

“That rifle was recovered in a wooded area where the shooter had fled. The FBI laboratory will be analysing this weapon.”

Mr Bohls added that they also found an “impression of a palm print and forearm imprints for analysis”.