A suspect has been arrested in connection with the murder of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist, according to U.S. President Donald Trump. Kirk, 31, was shot and killed during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday. The shooting occurred when a sniper fired a single shot, striking Kirk in the neck as he addressed an audience of approximately 3,000 people.

Trump announced the arrest during an interview, stating, "I think we have him," and explained that a person familiar with the suspect had reported him to authorities. He described the informant as a minister who contacted a friend involved in law enforcement. Trump elaborated, saying, "And then it was a father got involved, namely his father, and said, 'We got to go in.'" The suspect was taken into custody after driving to a police headquarters.

Investigators had previously located a bolt-action rifle believed to be the weapon used in the shooting. They also released images of a person of interest captured on security cameras. The footage showed a man wearing sunglasses and a dark shirt featuring an eagle and the American flag. Enhanced images revealed a triangular logo on the suspect's cap, and he was also believed to have been wearing Converse sneakers.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox expressed hope that the released images would help the public identify the suspect. He indicated that the state would seek the death penalty for the individual responsible for Kirk's death. Cox urged citizens to disregard misinformation circulating online and to focus on spending time with family.

Kirk was known for his advocacy of conservative policies and was a prominent figure in the Republican Party's outreach to younger voters. His assassination has sparked widespread condemnation of political violence from various political leaders and organizations. In response to Kirk's death, Trump announced plans to award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.

The shooting occurred just before Kirk was set to engage in a debate titled "Prove Me Wrong." As he answered a question about mass shootings, the fatal shot was fired. Following the incident, audience members fled in panic, and the shooter escaped into a nearby neighborhood. Investigators have been examining the crime scene and surrounding areas for additional evidence.