A simulation has been created to detail how an attacker might have targeted US activist Charlie Kirk with a ‘clear line of sight’.
Charlie Kirk, known as the co-founder of Turning Point USA, tragically lost his life at the age of 31 on Wednesday, September 10, during an event at Utah Valley University where he was speaking.
His controversial views on issues such as the LGBTQ+ community and gun rights made him a polarizing figure, and in the aftermath of his death, the governor of Utah labeled the shooting as ‘a political assassination’.
Efforts to find the person responsible for Kirk’s death are still ongoing, with the FBI reaching out to the public for assistance in identifying the suspect.
The authorities have disclosed information about the events of September 10, which have aided in the development of a simulation by the YouTube channel AiTelly.
The shooter allegedly escaped by leaping from the roof of the Losee Center, situated about 400 feet from where Kirk was speaking.
The simulation indicates that this position might have provided the shooter with a ‘clear line of sight’, noting: “The rooftop provided a clear vantage point with open sight lines directly to the event area.”
The video further suggests that: “The shooter chose an elevated, concealed position to avoid close detection and maximize the chances of escape.”
See the video below:
The FBI has stated that the shooter ‘jump[ed] from a rooftop and [ran] away from the location’ post-shooting, adding: “Trace evidence collected from the rooftop includes shoe impressions, a forearm imprint, and a palm print. The shooter’s weapon and ammunition were recovered from a wooded area near the university.”
The firearm used is believed to be a high-powered hunting rifle, aligning with the simulation’s idea that a ‘scoped firearm’ designed for precision over long distances was likely employed due to the accuracy with which Kirk was struck.
Regrettably, the shooter managed to evade capture, and the search for the assailant continues as of September 12.
Police have distributed images of an individual in a hat, sunglasses, and a long sleeve black shirt running across a rooftop, hoping the public might assist in identifying the person.
The FBI is offering a $100,000 reward for any information that leads to the arrest of the individual responsible for Kirk’s death.
For anyone affected by gun violence, more support and information can be found through Survivors Empowered on their website.