Armed Man Arrested for Impersonating Officer at Charlie Kirk Memorial Venue

A 42-year-old man was arrested at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, for allegedly impersonating a law enforcement officer and carrying weapons ahead of Charlie Kirk's memorial service.

On Friday, September 19, 2025, Joshua Runkles was taken into custody after exhibiting suspicious behavior at the stadium, which is set to host the memorial for conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Sunday. According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS), Runkles was booked on charges of impersonating a law enforcement officer and carrying a weapon into a prohibited place.

The U.S. Secret Service, coordinating with local law enforcement, approached Runkles after observing his behavior. He claimed to be a member of law enforcement and admitted to being armed. However, investigators confirmed that Runkles was not authorized to work the event, and multiple knives and guns were recovered from him.

An investigation is ongoing to determine Runkles' intent and purpose at the stadium. He has since been released on bond.

The memorial service for Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot on September 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University, is expected to draw a large crowd, including President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance.