No suspect detained in killing of Charlie Kirk: Utah safety department
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A suspect remains at large in the killing of Charlie Kirk, a prominent right-wing activist who was fatally shot during a campus event at Utah Valley University.
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Law enforcement vehicles surround buildings at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, in Orem, Utah. (AP Photo/Alex Goodlett)
The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced that the shooter responsible for the killing of right-wing political activist Charlie Kirk on Wednesday is still at large.
The fatal shooting occurred during a public event attended by hundreds, sparking immediate security concerns and political reactions across the United States.
In the hours following the shooting, authorities detained two individuals for questioning. However, neither has been linked to the murder.
"This shooting is still an active investigation," The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) said in a statement, adding that they and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are cooperating in the investigation alongside the Utah County Attorney’s office, the Utah County Sheriff’s office, and the local police departments.
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“We initially took in George Zinn as a suspect," the statement continued. "He was later released and charged with obstruction by UVU police. A second suspect, Zachariah Qureshi, was taken into custody and released after interrogation with law enforcement. There are no ties to the shooting with either of these individuals. There is an ongoing investigation and manhunt for the shooter."
Authorities have not yet identified a primary suspect, and the shooter remains at large.
"The shooting is believed to be a targeted attack. The shooter is believed to have fired from the roof of a building down to the location of the public event in the student courtyard. Any additional clarifications cannot be provided to protect the integrity of our investigation," the Utah DPS statement added.
US authorities and Trump respond to Kirk's death
US President Donald Trump offered condolences to Kirk’s family, calling the murder "a senseless act of violence" and vowing to bring those responsible to justice.
Kirk, a polarizing figure in right-wing political circles, was known for his vocal conservative activism, pro-"Israel" stance, and his role in organizing campus events across the United States.
So far, investigators have not connected the incident to any known protest or political demonstration, though Kirk’s high-profile status has raised questions about the motive behind the shooting.
The incident has added to growing concerns about political violence and security at public events involving high-profile figures.
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