Armed Man Arrested at Charlie Kirk Funeral Site Was Conducting Security Sweep, TPUSA Says

Armed Man Arrested at Charlie Kirk Funeral Site Was Conducting Security Sweep, TPUSA Says

An armed man arrested inside State Farm Stadium ahead of Charlie Kirk’s funeral posed no threat and was performing a private security sweep, Turning Point USA (TPUSA) confirmed Saturday.

Authorities detained 42-year-old Joshua Runkles on Friday after he was found carrying a handgun, a knife, and expired law enforcement credentials. Officials said he initially claimed to be conducting security for a VIP guest.

TPUSA spokesman Andrew Kolvet acknowledged Runkles was on-site for security purposes but admitted his work was not coordinated with TPUSA or the U.S. Secret Service. “We do not believe this person was attempting anything nefarious,” Kolvet posted on X. “Every precaution is being taken to ensure everyone’s safety.”

Runkles, a former Idaho deputy sheriff with a North Carolina concealed carry permit, was booked into Maricopa County Jail for impersonating a law enforcement officer and carrying a weapon into a prohibited place. He was later released on bond as investigators continue reviewing his actions.

Kirk’s funeral, expected to draw more than 100,000 attendees including President Trump, has been designated a level-1 “special event assessment rating” by Homeland Security—signifying the highest level of federal security support.

Kirk, 31, founder of TPUSA, was fatally shot during an event in Utah on Sept. 10. His body was flown to Arizona aboard Air Force Two, escorted by Vice President JD Vance. Sunday’s memorial will feature remarks from Trump, Kirk’s widow Erika, and other political figures.

The investigation into Runkles remains ongoing.