President Donald Trump said Friday that a suspect in the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk is in custody, though law enforcement agencies have not yet confirmed the arrest.
Kirk, 31, was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University earlier this week. Authorities described the attack as targeted and politically motivated. A high-powered rifle was recovered near the scene. His death sparked outrage across the country, with many political leaders condemning the killing.
Trump, speaking in a live interview on Fox News, said the suspect was turned in by someone close to him who alerted a minister connected to law enforcement. He praised the quick action and suggested the death penalty should be pursued. “We have him,” Trump declared, emphasizing that the person responsible was in custody.
Despite Trump’s statement, investigators in Utah have not released official confirmation of an arrest. On Thursday, authorities said two people had been questioned and later released. The FBI has circulated video and images of a person of interest and continues to urge the public to share tips. A reward of up to \$100,000 remains in place for information leading to the shooter’s arrest.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox called the killing a “political assassination,” while officials have increased security measures around public events in the state. The shooting has renewed national debates about political violence and security at public gatherings.
As of Friday, the identity of the suspect has not been disclosed. Federal and state investigators are continuing their probe while the nation awaits official confirmation on whether the shooter is in custody.
