Kash Patel Slammed After Wrongly Announcing Charlie Kirk Shooter Was Caught — Then Admitting No Arrest

Kash Patel, the FBI director, is facing heavy criticism after he falsely declared that Charlie Kirk’s shooter had been caught. Hours later, he reversed his statement, admitting no suspect was in custody. The announcement created national confusion and drew strong rebuke from officials and the White House.

According to Reuters, Patel posted on social media that the suspect in Kirk’s fatal shooting in Utah was in custody. Local police quickly contradicted him, and the FBI later clarified that two people had been questioned and released. The shooter remains at large.

Patel’s False Claim Sparks Confusion

The killing of Charlie Kirk, a prominent Trump ally, at Utah Valley University shocked thousands of witnesses. Just before a planned press briefing, Patel announced online that the gunman had been caught. That claim was soon walked back.

Officials later said the two people held for questioning were not involved. Utah’s Department of Public Safety confirmed the search for the shooter was still active. The backtrack fueled confusion across media outlets and among the public.

A White House source described Patel’s performance as “unprofessional” and “unacceptable.” Retired FBI agents said directors normally avoid premature statements because early intelligence is often unreliable.

Why Patel’s Mistake Matters

This was Patel’s first major test as FBI director. A loyal Trump ally, Patel has little law enforcement background. Critics argue his inexperience has harmed the bureau’s credibility at a critical moment.

Patel has already pushed out dozens of FBI officials and faced lawsuits from former agents who accused him of political purges. His role has raised questions about the independence of the FBI under his leadership.

In this case, Patel’s error risks undermining trust during a politically charged investigation. Instead of clarity, his words created doubt.

The Current Status of the Case

Authorities confirmed they recovered the rifle used in the shooting. The FBI also released photos of a person of interest. A $100,000 reward was announced for information leading to an arrest.

Still, many critics, including conservative activist Laura Loomer, said the reward was too low. She called it “a slap in the face to Charlie Kirk.”

Officials said the attack was likely a targeted shooting. The killer fired from a rooftop, striking Kirk during his event in front of about 3,000 people. The motive remains unclear.

Kash Patel’s error has now become part of the story itself — casting doubt on his leadership as the manhunt for Charlie Kirk’s killer continues.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What did Kash Patel say about the Charlie Kirk shooter?

He said the shooter was caught. Hours later, he backtracked, confirming no one was in custody.

Q2: Why was Patel criticized?

Officials said his announcement was premature and unprofessional. They stressed the FBI should not announce unverified details on social media.

Q3: What is the status of the investigation?

The shooter is still at large. A rifle was recovered, and photos of a suspect were released. The FBI announced a $100,000 reward.

Q4: Why is this case important for Patel?

It is his first major test as FBI director. His lack of law enforcement experience has already raised concerns about his leadership.

Q5: How did the White House respond?

A White House source called Patel’s conduct unacceptable. However, officials said he still has President Trump’s backing.

References

Reuters – Jana Winter & Sarah N. Lynch, Sept. 11–12, 2025

Associated Press (AP), Sept. 11, 2025

The New York Times – Glenn Thrush & Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Sept. 11, 2025

BBC News, Sept. 11, 2025