UPDATE: A man has been arrested at the State Farm Stadium in Arizona during the funeral for Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, raising urgent security concerns. Joshua Runkles, 42, was taken into custody after presenting expired law enforcement credentials to Secret Service personnel at the venue, which is set to host over 100,000 attendees, including prominent figures such as President Donald Trump.
Authorities confirm that Runkles, who was found armed with a gun and a knife, was conducting a security sweep for a “known guest.” However, this action was not coordinated with the security team of Turning Point USA (TPUSA) or the Secret Service. TPUSA spokesman Andrew Kolvet stated, “We do not believe this person was attempting anything nefarious; however, the advance was not done in proper coordination.”
Runkles was arrested after revealing a fake police badge and ID while claiming to be employed as private security. He faces charges of impersonating law enforcement and carrying a weapon in a prohibited area. Currently held at Maricopa County Jail, he has since been released on bond but has been prohibited from returning to the stadium.
This alarming incident unfolded just before Kirk’s public memorial service, following his tragic death last Wednesday at Utah Valley University, where he was fatally shot while addressing students. Tyler Robinson, 22, has been charged with his murder.
As the memorial service approaches, the stadium is expected to reach full capacity, with additional arrangements made at the nearby Desert Diamond Arena to accommodate overflow guests. TPUSA has implemented a strict no-bag policy to further ensure safety.
With security heightened and an investigation ongoing, officials are taking every precaution to protect attendees. The situation is developing rapidly, and further updates are anticipated as the memorial service unfolds.
