Trump, speaking in a Fox News interview on the morning of September 12, 2025, said investigators had apprehended the individual believed to be responsible for Kirk’s killing “with a high degree of certainty.” The arrest comes less than 48 hours after Kirk was fatally shot while addressing an audience at Utah Valley University, an attack that shocked conservatives nationwide and drew swift condemnation across the political spectrum.

A Minister’s Unusual Role

According to Trump, the chain of events leading to the suspect’s arrest began when police released surveillance photos and video of the gunman. A person “very close” to the suspect reportedly recognized them from the footage and alerted authorities. That tip brought a minister into the picture — someone who, Trump said, is not only a spiritual leader but also actively involved with law enforcement.

This minister was able to reach out to the suspect’s father, convincing him to cooperate with investigators. With the support of a U.S. Marshal, the father then assisted in facilitating his son’s surrender. Trump described this collaboration as pivotal in ensuring the suspect was brought into custody without further violence.

Law Enforcement Silent, For Now

While Trump publicly shared these details, law enforcement agencies in Utah have not yet confirmed the arrest or identified the suspect. Officials have also not disclosed the suspect’s possible motives or background. A press conference scheduled for later Friday in Utah is expected to provide confirmation and outline the next steps in the legal process.

Until then, the only account of the arrest comes from Trump himself. “They got him, and they got him fast,” he told Fox News, suggesting that the cooperation between the minister, the suspect’s father, and federal marshals was decisive in resolving the manhunt.

Shock Over Kirk’s Assassination

Charlie Kirk, 31, was a prominent conservative podcaster and activist best known as the founder of Turning Point USA and as a staunch ally of President Trump. He had been delivering remarks at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on September 10 when he was shot in front of attendees. Emergency responders rushed him to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The killing drew immediate outcry from conservative figures and political leaders. Trump, who had often praised Kirk as a “patriot” and “brilliant voice for America’s youth,” called the assassination “a horrific act of political violence” and vowed swift justice.

Awaiting Answers

The public remains in the dark about who the suspect is, what their motives may have been, and whether they acted alone. Trump’s comments highlight an unusual dimension of the case — the involvement of a faith leader with ties to law enforcement in helping secure the arrest.

For now, the nation awaits official confirmation from Utah authorities, who are expected to address the case later today. The press conference is likely to provide critical details about the suspect’s identity, the circumstances of the arrest, and the charges that will follow.