Charlie Kirk’s alleged shooter engraved pro-transgender, antifascist messages on bullets, ATF reveals
Charlie Kirk Shooting: ATF Says Cartridges Engraved with Transgender, Antifascist Messages
TMZ reports that investigators are examining disturbing writings tied to the suspected gunman who fatally shot conservative commentator Charlie Kirk during an appearance at Utah Valley University.
According to a law enforcement bulletin from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) — which was circulated internally and later shared online by commentator Steven Crowder — cartridges recovered from the scene bore engravings referencing transgender identity and anti-fascist ideology.
Federal officials confirmed the authenticity of the document to TMZ but did not disclose the exact wording of the messages.
Authorities say the shooter fired a single round from an older imported Mauser .30-06 caliber bolt-action rifle, which was later discovered in a wooded area near the university. The suspect, however, remains at large. The FBI’s Salt Lake City office has released still images of a person of interest and is urging the public to assist with identification.
Kirk, 31, was struck in the neck while addressing a crowd of about 3,000 on campus. He was rushed to a local hospital for emergency surgery but could not be saved. His death has prompted tributes and condemnation across the political spectrum.
The tragedy also comes against the backdrop of Kirk’s controversial remarks on transgender issues. In September 2024, he described transgenderism as “a mental disorder” during a Kansas State University event, and previously characterized transgender identity as “a throbbing middle finger to God.”
On Thursday, former President Donald Trump announced that Kirk would be awarded a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom. Leaders from both parties have denounced the killing as another alarming example of escalating political violence in the United States.
