Charlie Kirk assassination live: Major update in FBI investigation

The first photos of a “person of interest” in the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk have been released by the FBI after it was revealed that the rifle used to kill him had been recovered.

In a press conference on Thursday local time, FBI Salt Lake City special agent in charge

Robert Bohles said authorities found “what we believe is the weapon in yesterday’s shooting, a high-powered bolt action rifle” as a manhunt for the shooter continued.

“The suspect bended in well with the college institution,” Mr Bohles said.

The FBI later issued grainy photos of a person of interest and announced a reward of up to US$100,000 (A$150,000) for information leading to his identification and arrest.

Investigators said they also have yet-to-be-released quality video footage of the “college-age” suspect. Other evidence includes a palm imprint, a forearm imprint and a “footwear impression”.