Authorities in Utah are investigating the murder of an individual named Kirk, who was shot while speaking at Utah Valley University in Provo. The shooting has prompted a multi-agency response, including the closure of local airspace and a large-scale manhunt that remains ongoing. According to state officials, a bolt-action rifle was recovered from a wooded area near the scene, leading investigators to believe the shooter discarded the weapon while fleeing. Bolt-action rifles are known for their accuracy and are often used in hunting and precision shooting, making them a concerning choice in a targeted attack.
Immediately after the shooting, authorities ordered the closure of airspace around Provo Municipal Airport, which is located approximately a 10-minute drive from Utah Valley University. The airport primarily serves domestic flights and is a hub for regional travel, underscoring the seriousness with which law enforcement treated the potential for aerial escape or additional threats. Despite these measures, there are reports that the local FBI branch failed to secure the perimeter in a timely manner, which may have contributed to complications in the investigation.
Adding to the mystery, evidence indicates that a private plane took off from Provo Municipal Airport shortly after 2:00 p.m., heading south toward the Arizona border before turning off its transponder and disappearing from radar. Transponders are electronic devices that broadcast a plane’s identity, altitude, and position to air traffic control, and turning one off is a serious breach of aviation protocol often associated with illicit activities. According to the U.S. Department of Civil Aviation, the aircraft is registered to an owner in Lehi, Utah, though no further details about the owner or possible passengers have been disclosed.
During the investigation, police briefly detained George Zinn, who confessed to firing the fatal shot. However, he was released after interrogators determined his statements were inconsistent and nonsensical, wasting valuable time and resources. Zinn’s release highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in distinguishing credible leads from false confessions, especially in high-pressure manhunts. Despite an extensive search involving local, state, and federal agencies, the shooter remains at large, and the motive behind the attack is still unknown.