Former US President Donald Trump on Friday said a suspect in the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk was in custody, though law enforcement agencies later denied the claim.
Speaking on Fox & Friends, Trump said: “I think, with a high degree of certainty, we have him in custody. We worked with the local police, the governor — everybody did a great job.”
However, authorities have not confirmed that any suspect has been detained. The Associated Press reported that two people were briefly questioned but later released, said no suspect was in custody despite Trump’s remarks.
The FBI and local police on Thursday night released new video footage and still photographs of a person of interest in the fatal shooting, appealing to the public for help in the search. More than 7,000 tips have been received, according to investigators, along with over 200 interviews.
A high-powered, bolt-action rifle believed to have been used in the attack has been recovered, alongside footwear marks and palm and forearm impressions. The FBI is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox has condemned the killing as a “political assassination” and pledged that if a suspect is brought to trial, the state will pursue the death penalty.
The motive for the killing remains unclear. Some unverified reports suggest inscriptions on ammunition may have referenced transgender and anti-fascist ideology, but law enforcement has not confirmed the details.
On Wednesday, thousands gathered at a vigil in Utah to honour Kirk, a prominent conservative voice, while political leaders across the spectrum condemned the shooting.
The case remains under investigation, and officials continue to urge the public to provide information that could lead to the identification and capture of the shooter.
Boluwatife Enome
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