The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has released images of a “person of interest” linked to the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, at Utah Valley University (UVU).
The BBC reports that the FBI is asking for public assistance in identifying the suspect and has announced a $100,000 reward for credible information.
Officials say the individual, believed to be of college age, fled into a nearby neighbourhood after the shooting on Wednesday.
A high-powered Mauser 30-06 bolt-action rifle was later recovered in the woods, alongside a footwear impression and a forearm imprint that investigators believe may belong to the gunman.
Footage reviewed by investigators appears to show the suspected shooter running across a roof near the scene.
Jackie Kelly, spokesperson for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s office, said more than 100 officers had joined the search effort.
Two people earlier questioned by police have since been released. A planned news conference was postponed on Thursday due to what Utah officials described as “rapid developments in our investigation”.
The killing of Kirk, a close ally of President Donald Trump, has sparked fresh debates on political violence in the United States.
Trump, who confirmed that Kirk’s body will be flown to Arizona aboard Air Force Two, said he would award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously.
Kirk was delivering a speech at UVU in Orem, Utah, when the gunman opened fire, sending students and staff into panic. He later succumbed to his injuries.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, with authorities urging calm as investigations continue.
“We need the public’s help. If you recognise the individual in the released images, contact us immediately,” the FBI said in a statement.
