BREAKING UPDATE: FBI announces suspect in Charlie Kirk assassination is still at large

UPDATE: At 7:59 pm, FBI Director Kash Patel announced that the person they had in custody has been released and is no longer suspected in the murder of Charlie Kirk.

"The subject in custody has been released after an interrogation by law enforcement. Our investigation continues and we will continue to release information in interest of transparency," Patel said about an hour and a half after announcing a suspect was in custody.

Original story follows:

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the suspect in the Utah assassination of beloved TPUSA founder Charlie Kirk is in custody. Kirk was shot during a speaking event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.

"The subject for the horrific shooting today that took the life of Charlie Kirk is now in custody. Thank you to the local and state authorities in Utah for your partnership with @fbi. We will provide updates when able."

There is no word yet on who that suspect is. Kirk was speaking on one of his college tours where he engages students in open dialogue and debate about essential issues facing our nation, their generation, and the world.

He has served as an iconic figure who, on the left of the political spectrum, was derided for his honesty and willingness to address every conversation openly and honestly, while on the right, he was praised for these very same qualities. His company, Turning Point USA, brought together young people across the nation who were looking for a life steeped more in traditional values than the progressive miasma so prevalent in American culture today.

President Donald Trump, to whom Kirk served as an advisor, ordered flags across the country to be flown at half mast. "In honor of Charlie Kirk, a truly Great American Patriot, I am ordering all American Flags throughout the United States lowered to Half Mast until Sunday evening at 6 pm," he said.

Turning Point USA said in a statement on Wednesday evening, "It is with a heavy heart that we confirm that Charles James Kirk has been murdered by a gunshot that took place during Turning Point USA’s “The American Comeback Tour” campus event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025.

"May he be received into the merciful arms of our loving Savior, who suffered and died for Charlie. We ask that everyone keep his family and loved ones in your prayers. We ask that you please respect their privacy and dignity at this time."

After Kirk was shot, he was rushed from the stage. Students were evacuated from the area. Kirk was rushed to the hospital, but his wounds were too grave and he died once there.