Charlie Kirk to be posthumously awarded Medal of Freedom, says US President Donald Trump

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (September 11) announced that Charlie Kirk will be posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the country's highest civilian honour. Kirk, 31, was fatally shot while speaking at an event in Utah on Wednesday (September 10). Speaking at a Pentagon event on Thursday, Trump praised Kirk as a leading figure of his generation and a powerful voice for liberty. "Charlie was an inspiration to millions, especially young people," Trump said in remarks. “His courage and the message he shared will continue to impact lives for years to come.”

What did the FBI say?

Conservative activist and prominent Trump ally Charlie Kirk was assassinated on Wednesday (September 10) in a an attack during a public event. The 31-year-old was fatally shot by a gunman who reportedly leapt from a rooftop and fled the scene immediately after firing. According to Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Beau Mason, the suspect appears to be of college age. Mason confirmed that authorities have obtained images of the individual and expressed confidence in their ability to locate and apprehend him.

The FBI later announced that the shooter’s high-powered rifle had been recovered in a nearby wooded area where the suspect was believed to have escaped. FBI Special Agent Robert Bohls revealed that the firearm is now undergoing forensic analysis at the FBI’s lab. Investigators also discovered a footwear impression and a forearm imprint at the scene, both of which are being closely examined.

“This was clearly a targeted attack,” Bohls said during a press briefing. When asked about the suspect’s appearance, Bohls declined to provide specific details, saying that while authorities do possess images of the shooter, they are withholding facial information for the time being due to the ongoing investigation. “We’ll release that shortly,” he added.