FBI issues update after finding key evidence in Charlie Kirk assassination case

The FBI has given an update into its investigation into Charlie Kirk's killing.

While speaking at an event at Utah Valley University yesterday, Kirk was shot in the neck.

The 31-year-old was rushed to hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. He is survived by his wife and their two young children.

There's a nationwide man-hunt underway to find the shooter and while they're yet to be found, the FBI have confirmed that a gun believed to be that of the killer's has been located.

FBI special agent in charge Robert Bohls said that the gun was a high-powered bolt-action rifle and they believe that it is 'the weapon that was used in yesterday's shooting'.

The rifle was located in wooded area where it's thought the shooter fled the scene.

Charlie Kirk was fatally shot in Utah on September 10 (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

The FBI has also found and are analyzing a 'footwear impression, a palm print and a forearm imprint', said the BBC.

The FBI are relying heavily on the public's help in locating the shooter and urged people to send in videos and photos of yesterday's university event.

Bohls said they have already received 130 tips.

Elsewhere Bohls appeared to confirm that the shooter is male and that they have images of the suspect that the FBI plan on releasing in the near future.

Bohls added that the suspect isn't thought to be a threat to the wider community.

Kirk was a well-known rightwing activist (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Reportedly the shooter is of or around college age because he 'blended in well with the college institution'.

"We're not releasing many details right now. We will soon. But right now, we're not," Bohls said, adding: "But that individual appears to be of college age."

Elsewhere in the press conference Utah DPS Commissioner Beau Mason confirmed that they have 'good video footage' of the suspect that they're still analyzing.

Mason has spoken to Kirk's family and said that they're 'devastated' after his death.

"I can only imagine what they're going through," he continued. "This is not Utah. This is not what we are known for."

Kirk is survived by his wife and their two children (mrserikakirk/Instagram)

Some 3,000 people were in attendance at the event Kirk was at yesterday, according to a statement from the Utah Department of Public Safety.

It also said the university police department had six officers working at the event along with Kirk’s own security detail.

Utah Valley University said the campus was immediately evacuated and remained closed.

Classes were cancelled until further notice.

Those still on campus were asked to stay in place until police officers could safely escort them off campus.

If you or someone you know has been affected by gun violence, please find more information and support via Survivors Empowered on their website.