OREM, Utah — President Donald Trump announced on Friday that authorities have captured the suspect in the shooting of Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative figure. Trump stated, "With a high degree of certainty, we have him," during a live interview on Fox News. The suspect's identity has not yet been disclosed.

The shooting occurred on Wednesday at Utah Valley University, where Kirk was speaking to a crowd. He was shot in what police described as a targeted attack. Kirk was pronounced dead hours later at a local hospital. The FBI and Justice Department have not yet commented on the capture.

Authorities had previously released images and video of the suspect, who allegedly fired a single shot from a rooftop before fleeing into the surrounding area. More than 7,000 tips and leads were submitted to law enforcement during the investigation. Robert Bohls, the FBI's top agent in Salt Lake City, confirmed that the incident was targeted.

Kirk was known for his role in mobilizing young Republican voters and co-founded the nonprofit organization Turning Point USA. He was shot while discussing social issues, and the attack was captured on video, which circulated widely on social media. The footage shows Kirk speaking into a microphone when the shot rang out, causing chaos among the audience.

In response to the violence, Trump expressed his intention to award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. Vice President JD Vance visited Kirk's family in Salt Lake City and shared memories of their friendship on social media.

Kirk's casket was transported from Utah to Phoenix aboard Air Force Two, where Turning Point USA is based. Trump has indicated he plans to attend Kirk's funeral, although details have not been released.

The shooting has sparked widespread condemnation from both Republican and Democratic leaders, highlighting the ongoing issue of political violence in the country. The event was part of Kirk's "American Comeback Tour," which had already generated controversy on campus, leading to an online petition against his appearance.

In the aftermath of the shooting, students barricaded themselves in classrooms, using furniture to secure doors. Local resident Kathleen Murphy expressed her concerns, stating, "With the shooter not being caught yet, it was a worry."

As the investigation continues, authorities have yet to disclose a motive for the shooting, which has drawn attention to the increasing incidents of political violence affecting various ideologies across the nation.