Suspect in Charlie Kirk shooting is in custody with 'high degree of certainty,' says Trump

President Donald Trump said on Friday morning, 12 September, that a suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk is now in custody. Speaking live on Fox & Friends Trump told the hosts, "With a high degree of certainty, we have him."

The president explained that the tip leading to the arrest came from a minister who also works in law enforcement. According to Trump, this individual recognised the alleged gunman and alerted the authorities. "Somebody that was very close to him said, 'Hmm, that's him,'" Trump recounted during the interview.

Trump's comments mark the first direct confirmation from the White House that an arrest has been made in the wake of the killing, though further details about the suspect’s identity or motives have not been released. The president praised the swift action of those involved, but stopped short of offering specifics about where the suspect is being held.

The remarks came two days after Kirk was fatally shot during a debate event at Utah Valley University. The co-founder of Turning Point USA was hit in the neck while speaking on stage, and he later died in hospital. Videos of the incident spread rapidly on social media, sparking shock and outrage across political circles.

Trump had previously announced Kirk’s death on his social media platform, calling him "The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk" and sharing condolences with his wife Erika and family. His Friday comments signal that the investigation may be moving toward resolution, though officials have yet to corroborate his statement.

A press conference with state and federal officials in Utah has been scheduled for 9 a.m. ET, where further details may be provided.