US President Donald Trump said Friday that the suspect who killed Charlie Kirk has been taken into police custody. According to reports, the assailant voluntarily turned himself in. President Trump also called for the death penalty to be imposed on the killer.
“I think with a high degree of certainty we have him in custody,” Trump told Fox News. “Someone very close to him turned him in.”
“He’s there,” Trump confirmed, while cautioning, “this is subject to change.”
He added: “It was a minister... and his good friend is a top US marshal... and then it was a father got involved.”
Also read: MAGA turns on Kash Patel after Charlie Kirk's killing The suspect reportedly arrived at police headquarters voluntarily, CNN reported.
Calling for the death penalty Trump said, “Well, I hope — he’s going to be found guilty, I would imagine — and I hope he gets the death penalty.”
What he did, Charlie Kirk, he was the finest person that, he didn’t deserve this. He worked so hard and so well, everybody liked him,” the US president said.
Also read: New pictures show Charlie Kirk's shooter's POV; key traces foundUtah officials will hold a press conference at 9am ET to update the public on the ongoing manhunt for the suspect who fatally shot conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Governor Spencer Cox, FBI Director Kash Patel, and other top officials will be present.
Charlie Kirk, a right-wing activist and close Trump ally, was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University. The 31-year-old collapsed from a neck wound after a single shot was fired from a rooftop. Former Congressman Jason Chaffetz said Kirk had been answering a question on “transgender shooters, mass shooters,” when the shot rang out.
On Thursday, authorities released new images showing a man fleeing the scene after firing a single, fatal shot at Kirk. The suspect was wearing dark clothing, Converse-style shoes, and a top featuring an American flag design.
Authorities said that the shooter used a bolt-action rifle from 200 yards away before fleeing. The FBI released images of a young male suspect and offered a $100,000 reward.
Footage released by the FBI showed the suspect fleeing across the roof and disappearing into nearby woods, where the rifle was later recovered.
Vice President JD Vance transported Kirk’s body to Arizona aboard Air Force Two. Trump, calling the killing a “political assassination,” said he would attend the funeral and award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
“He was an advocate of nonviolence,” Trump told reporters.
At a vigil, students expressed shock and grief. “It’s totally surreal,” said one attendee.
The university remains closed, and the FBI continues to appeal for information, urging: “No tip is too small.”
At TOI World Desk, our dedicated team of seasoned journalists and...
Read MoreAt TOI World Desk, our dedicated team of seasoned journalists and passionate writers tirelessly sifts through the vast tapestry of global events to bring you the latest news and diverse perspectives round the clock. With an unwavering commitment to accuracy, depth, and timeliness, we strive to keep you informed about the ever-evolving world, delivering a nuanced understanding of international affairs to our readers. Join us on a journey across continents as we unravel the stories that shape our interconnected world.
Read Less
Start a Conversation
Post comment