Could the “.30-06 bolt-action rifle” used in Charlie Kirk shooting reveal who the shooter was?

Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10. Federal agents have now confirmed they recovered the rifle used in the attack. The weapon was found in a wooded area near the campus. Officials say it was an older bolt-action rifle.

Law enforcement sources told major outlets it was a Mauser .30-06 caliber rifle. This type of rifle is known for hunting use. Investigators believe the shooter discarded it while fleeing. The FBI has sealed off the site for further testing.

What We Know About the Rifle Used

According to Reuters and USA TODAY, the rifle was found behind the Losee building on campus. Evidence markers showed a trail leading through the woods to a nearby construction zone. Workers at the site told reporters they briefly saw a man moving through the area. One worker recalled the man saying he was trying to get home safe after the shooting.

The rifle is described as a high-powered bolt-action firearm. Experts note the .30-06 caliber is common for hunting deer. This type of rifle typically holds five rounds. A shooter must reload each round manually after firing. That slows the rate of fire compared with semi-automatic rifles.

Tom Chittum, a former ATF deputy director, said the single shot at Kirk matched the profile of such a rifle. He explained that with optics and some practice, the shot was possible without military training. The FBI will now test the weapon for fingerprints, DNA, and trace evidence.

Image source: New York Post

Investigation and Security Concerns

Officials stressed that finding the rifle is a major step. It can be traced through serial numbers. It may also lead to the purchase history. That could help identify the suspect or their network. Authorities have not confirmed if the shooter is linked to any group.

The Utah Department of Public Safety and the FBI are leading the manhunt. They urged the public to report tips. Police believe the suspect may have used nearby properties to escape. Forensic teams are continuing to search the area.

Security experts note the choice of a bolt-action rifle may suggest planning. It shows patience and preparation for a long-range shot. But officials caution against speculation until the investigation is complete.

Charlie Kirk shooter rifle details mark a turning point in the investigation. The FBI says tracing the weapon will be key. Authorities remain focused on finding the suspect and preventing further violence.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What type of rifle was used in the Charlie Kirk shooting?

Reports confirm it was an older Mauser .30-06 caliber bolt-action rifle. This is a common hunting weapon.

Q2: Where was the rifle found?

The FBI recovered it in a wooded area behind Utah Valley University’s Losee building. The site was taped off for evidence work.

Q3: Why does a bolt-action rifle matter in this case?

A bolt-action rifle fires slower than semi-automatic rifles. But it allows for precise, long-range shots with practice.

Q4: How will the FBI use the rifle in the investigation?

Agents will test it for DNA, fingerprints, and ballistic data. The rifle’s history can also be traced through sales records.

Q5: Has the shooter been caught?

No, the suspect is still at large. Authorities are asking the public for any information that may help.

Sources

Reuters, USA TODAY, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times