Charlie Kirk, 31, founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot on September 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University. What began as a campus event turned into national tragedy. Investigators recovered a .30 caliber bolt-action rifle in a nearby wooded area. The weapon still held three unused bullets, each “carrying ideological inscriptions investigators say may point to motive.”

Sources said the engravings referenced themes linked to transgender and antifascist ideologies, described as “highly unusual” and possibly key to understanding the shooter’s mindset. Surveillance footage showed a college-aged male in black clothing and aviator sunglasses entering the Losee Center, climbing to the roof, and firing the fatal shot before fleeing. Officials have not released images due to the ongoing investigation.

Forensic teams are analyzing fingerprints, footwear impressions, and whether the bullet engravings were hand-carved or machine-etched, which could reveal planning or networks behind the attack. Kirk’s final words were chilling: in response to a question about mass shootings, he said, “Too many,” and added, “Counting or not counting gang violence?” Seconds later, he was shot.

Political figures reacted strongly. Donald Trump called Kirk “a truly great and legendary patriot” and ordered flags lowered. Others labeled it a political assassination.

With over 130 tips, the FBI continues investigating. The engraved bullets have turned Kirk’s killing into “one of the most politically charged assassinations in modern U.S. history.”