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The FBI is conducting a comprehensive investigation into the September 10 assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, with Director Kash Patel announcing Sunday that federal agents are examining potential security breaches, including hand gestures made by individuals near Kirk moments before he was fatally shot.
Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was killed during a speech at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, when he was struck in the neck by a single gunshot. The incident has generated widespread speculation after video footage captured two men behind Kirk making what appeared to be deliberate hand signals seconds before the shooting occurred.
In a statement posted on Twitter, Patel outlined the scope of the federal investigation, emphasizing the Bureau's commitment to examining "every facet of this assassination."
"We are meticulously investigating theories and questions, including the location from where the shot was taken, the possibility of accomplices, the text message confession and related conversations, Discord chats, the angle of the shot and bullet impact, how the weapon was transported, hand gestures observed as potential 'signals' near Charlie at the time of his assassination, and visitors to the alleged shooter's residence in the hours and days leading up to September 10, 2025," Patel wrote.
The hand gestures in question involved a man in a white shirt adjusting or tipping his hat, followed immediately by another man in a black shirt crossing his arm and making finger signals. The sequence occurred as an audience member asked Kirk about gun violence, adding to suspicions about the timing.
Tyler Robinson has been arrested as the alleged shooter, though federal investigators continue to examine potential accomplices and coordination. The FBI director confirmed agents are analyzing the suspect's digital communications, including Discord conversations and text messages.
One conspiracy theory that gained traction online involved claims about an aircraft with a disabled transponder near the assassination site. Patel addressed this speculation directly, stating that after interviews with the pilot and consultation with the Federal Aviation Administration, investigators determined the transponder was not intentionally turned off.
"Incomplete flight data in rural areas caused the apparent gap," Patel explained.
The assassination has sparked intense debate about security protocols and potential coordination. Video analysis by security experts has produced conflicting interpretations of the hand gestures, with some viewing them as standard security team communications and others suggesting more sinister implications.
Kirk's death represents a significant loss for the conservative movement, where he had emerged as a prominent voice supporting former President Trump. His organization, Turning Point USA, became influential in mobilizing young conservative voters on college campuses nationwide.
The FBI's investigation comes amid heightened political tensions and increased security concerns for public figures across the political spectrum. Federal authorities have previously warned about the rising threat of politically motivated violence.
Patel emphasized that protecting the investigation's integrity requires limiting public disclosure of evidence.
"We cannot release every piece of information we have to the public right now," he stated. "We will ensure every question is addressed at the appropriate moment."
The director concluded his statement with a pledge that reflects the gravity federal law enforcement places on the case: "The entire FBI mourns the loss of Charlie Kirk. We will not rest until justice is served, and our investigation into this assassination will continue until every question is answered."
The investigation continues as federal agents work to determine whether Kirk's killing was the act of a lone gunman or part of a broader conspiracy.
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