JD Vance accompanies Charlie Kirk’s casket aboard Air Force Two to Arizona

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH: Vice President JD Vance was seen escorting the casket of Charlie Kirk towards Air Force Two on the tarmac in Salt Lake City before leaving for Kirk's hometown, Phoenix, Arizona.

The 31-year-old conservative commentator was shot during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, September 10, and died after he was rushed to the hospital.

Charlie Kirk's funeral to be held in Arizona

A viral video of the moment Charlie Kirk's casket was escorted showed his wife, Erika Frantzve, visibly emotional as the casket passed before her.

Frantzve left Air Force Two while holding the hand of Second Lady Usha Vance upon arriving in Phoenix.

Charlie Kirk's casket was transported to Hansen Memorial Chapel, and the MAGA commentator will be buried in Arizona.

Moreover, President Donald Trump said he will attend the funeral.

The POTUS informed reporters on Thursday, September 11, that he believed that Kirk's funeral would be held "next weekend" and added that he would attend.

Meanwhile, the federal authorities continue to search for the suspect who shot Kirk during an outdoor event at UVU on Wednesday afternoon.

Authorities said during a Thursday press conference that the suspect "blended in well with a college institution".

A photo that was later released by law enforcement showed the individual wearing a hat, sunglasses, and an American flag T-shirt with an eagle on it.

Moreover, the FBI has appealed for more public tips, photos, and videos to help piece together the string of events that led to Kirk's death. 

FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls said on Thursday, "We truly rely on the public's help in these types of cases. No tip is too small or too insignificant."

FBI announces $100K reward for information leading to suspect's arrest

The FBI announced an award of up to $100,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the person responsible.

People with relevant information can submit via an online page on the FBI's website.

The form requests contact details, a description of what was submitted, and the files themselves.

Meanwhile, Utah Governor Spencer Cox also made a plea to the public for tips to help identify and locate "this evil human".

Cox said, "We cannot do our job without the public's help right now."

As per the Governor, state officials are already moving to pursue the death penalty if the case goes to trial.

Interestingly, FBI Director Kash Patel appeared alongside the Utah Governor at the news conference but did not address reporters, nor take questions.

The head of the Utah Department of Public Safety stated that the suspect was wearing "distinct clothing" that could help in identifying the suspect, including Converse sneakers.