(Photo: X)
The gunman who killed Charlie Kirk fired a single fatal shot and fled, but left behind crucial traces that could help investigators track him down.Chilling new photos released on Thursday revealed the exact rooftop spot where the sniper had positioned himself before taking aim, reports New York Post. The images show a gravel-covered surface with orange evidence flags marking impressions that may have been left by the gunman’s body or hand. From that spot, the shooter had a clear view of the white tent where Kirk was speaking to about 3,000 people. The 31-year-old Turning Point USA founder was fatally shot in the neck while taking a question on gun violence during the first stop of his “American Comeback Tour.” Witnesses described panic as students and spectators screamed and ran for safety. Kirk was rushed to hospital in critical condition but did not survive. The FBI has launched a large-scale manhunt for the shooter, offering a reward of up to $100,000. Surveillance images released show a male in dark clothing, wraparound sunglasses, and a T-shirt with an eagle and American flag bearing the words “Land of the free, home of the brave.” Authorities say the suspect arrived on campus about half an hour before the attack, blended in with students, then climbed onto the roof before firing from about 200 yards away. He was later seen sprinting off the building and into nearby woods.Investigators recovered a .30-06 calibre Mauser rifle wrapped in a towel in a wooded area close to campus. Used and live rounds were found inside the weapon. According to a report by the Post some cartridges carried engravings linked to transgender and anti-fascist ideology. FBI officials also collected a footwear impression, a palm print and forearm imprints from the scene for forensic analysis. The hunt for the suspect continues.Tributes poured in as political leaders condemned the killing. Donald Trump called Kirk “a giant of his generation, a champion of liberty and an inspiration to millions and millions of people” and announced he would posthumously award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Turning Point USA described Kirk as “America’s greatest martyr,” adding, “Every one of us at Turning Point USA is crushed and devastated by the hateful murder of our founder and guiding light.”
