URGENT UPDATE: A significant security incident unfolded today at State Farm Stadium in Arizona during the memorial for conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Joshua Runkles, 42, was arrested for attempting to impersonate a police officer while conducting a security sweep, raising immediate concerns among attendees and authorities.
Runkles was apprehended after presenting expired law enforcement credentials to Secret Service personnel at the venue, where Kirk’s memorial service is expected to attract over 100,000 attendees, including high-profile figures like President Donald Trump.
According to Turning Point USA (TPUSA), Runkles was not deemed a threat. TPUSA spokesman Andrew Kolvet stated, “We do not believe this person was attempting anything nefarious, however, the advance was not done in proper coordination with the TPUSA security team or US Secret Service.” This incident occurred prior to the site being fully secured, prompting heightened security measures.
Runkles was discovered carrying a gun and a knife when he was taken into custody at Maricopa County Jail. He is charged with impersonating law enforcement and possessing a weapon at a prohibited location. A federal source confirmed that Runkles holds a concealed carry permit in North Carolina and previously served as a deputy sheriff in Idaho.
The memorial service for Kirk, tragically shot dead last Wednesday at Utah Valley University, will continue as planned. The stadium, with a seating capacity of 63,000, can expand to accommodate over 73,000 attendees. An overflow area at the nearby Desert Diamond Arena will hold an additional 19,000 people, with entry on a first-come, first-served basis. A strict no-bag policy will be enforced for security reasons.
Runkles has been released on bond but is prohibited from returning to the site of the incident. As authorities continue to investigate, the situation remains fluid and developing.
Kirk’s public memorial is set to honor his legacy as he was fatally shot while addressing students, struck by a single bullet to the neck. The alleged gunman, Tyler Robinson, has been charged with murder.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. Safety remains the top priority as thousands gather to pay their respects.
