Sharpshooter Analyzes Weapon, Bullet, and DNA Evidence in Charlie Kirk Case

Weapon Characteristics

• 🎯 The weapon used was a bolt-action rifle, described as an older model but very accurate, capable of precise fire at distances beyond 160 yards.
• 🔭 It likely had a scope which would magnify the target 8 to 20 times, making it significantly easier to aim and shoot.
• 🔫 Joe Scott Morgan identified the weapon as a Mouser 98, noting its internal magazine requires rounds to be loaded by hand, potentially leaving thumb DNA.

Bullet Analysis

• 💡 The bullet was a .30-06 caliber, traveling at approximately 2900 feet per second.
• 🦌 This type of round is commonly used for big game hunting in middle America, targeting animals like deer, elk, and hogs.
• ⚠️ It is uncommon for a .30-06 round to lodge in a person's neck; its larger size and faster speed typically cause it to pass through.

DNA Evidence Collection

• 🔍 DNA would likely be found on the weapon itself, specifically on the trigger, grip, chambering lever, and the stock where a shooter's cheek rests, potentially leaving saliva.
• 🧤 DNA on the bullets is also expected from the process of loading them into the chamber or magazine, unless extreme care with gloves was taken.

Engraving Bullets

• 🛠️ Engraving bullets is described as "very easy" and can be done quickly using a Dremel tool (a rotary grinder).
• ✍️ This process is likened to writing with a marker, and while precision might vary, the message would be conveyed.
• ⚖️ Investigators could potentially use the FBI's question document section to compare handwriting from the engraved casings to a suspect's known handwriting.

Sniper Expertise & Shot Feasibility

• 🎖️ Former Army sniper Koa Lorimor underwent five weeks of Army sniper school and two years of additional training, including international competitions and mountain sniper courses.
• ✅ Despite the specialized training, Lorimor believes a regular person could make the 160-yard shot with some practice at a shooting range.