Armed Man Detained at Charlie Kirk Memorial Site in Arizona Ahead of Event

Published Time: 09-20-2025, 16:45 EDT

A man carrying a firearm was detained outside State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, just two days before the scheduled memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The incident, confirmed by the U.S. Secret Service, is under investigation by federal and local law enforcement.

Secret Service Confirms Detention

Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi told Fox News Digital on Saturday that the individual drew attention after exhibiting what officials described as “suspicious behavior” at the stadium on Friday.

“The U.S. Secret Service, in coordination with local law enforcement in Glendale, Arizona, is investigating an individual who was observed exhibiting suspicious behavior at State Farm Stadium,” Guglielmi said.

When approached, the individual reportedly claimed to be a member of law enforcement and admitted to being armed. However, Guglielmi clarified that the person was not affiliated with any authorized law enforcement agency assigned to the event’s security detail.

Armed and Taken Into Custody

Authorities confirmed the man was indeed carrying a firearm at the time of the encounter. While no further details about the type of weapon or possible intentions have been released, the individual remains in custody as officials continue to investigate.

“The U.S. Secret Service and local law enforcement are investigating the circumstances as to why he was at the location,” Guglielmi added.

The individual’s name has not been made public, and officials have not disclosed whether charges have been filed.

Heightened Security for Memorial

State Farm Stadium is set to host the memorial service for Charlie Kirk on Sunday, September 21. The event is expected to draw significant national attention due to the presence of high-profile political figures, including former President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who are scheduled to deliver remarks in honor of Kirk.

Local authorities and federal security agencies are coordinating to ensure public safety during the memorial, which is anticipated to draw large crowds of attendees. Security procedures are expected to be tightened further following Friday’s incident.

Ongoing Investigation

At this stage, officials have not indicated any direct threat to the upcoming event, but law enforcement sources emphasized the importance of vigilance in high-profile gatherings. Investigators are working to determine the man’s motives and whether his presence was connected in any way to Sunday’s service.

The Secret Service has not provided additional updates, but the agency confirmed it will continue to work closely with Glendale police and stadium security as preparations for the memorial move forward.

Broader Context

High-profile political and memorial events often attract elevated security risks, and the involvement of national figures such as Trump and Vance has intensified the law enforcement response. Security experts note that incidents involving armed individuals near such venues underscore the ongoing challenges faced by federal and local agencies in maintaining public safety while balancing public access.

The memorial service is expected to be one of the largest gatherings honoring Charlie Kirk since his passing, drawing supporters, political leaders, and members of the conservative movement from across the country.