Armed Man Arrested on Impersonation Charges Days Before Charlie Kirk Memorial at State Farm Stadium
Armed Man Arrested on Impersonation Charges Days Before Charlie Kirk Memorial at State Farm Stadium
An armed individual was arrested at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on September 19, just two days before a memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk is being held at the venue today, September 21. Joshua Runkles, 42, is accused of impersonating a law enforcement officer and was found to be carrying multiple weapons.
According to reports, Runkles, a North Carolina resident, approached an officer on security detail on Friday, September 19, claiming to be working security for Turning Point USA. He presented a Franklin County Sheriff’s Office badge and an Idaho law enforcement identification card. Despite being advised he could not be armed on the property and needed proper coordination with Turning Point USA and the Secret Service, Runkles was later spotted inside the stadium by Secret Service members.
Upon his arrest, Runkles was reportedly in possession of a loaded pistol, a revolver, and several knives. He was taken into custody and subsequently released on bond. Turning Point USA issued a statement acknowledging that Runkles was performing ‘advance security for a known guest’ but stressed that his actions were not coordinated with their security team or the U.S. Secret Service. The organization indicated they do not believe his intentions were nefarious.
The Secret Service has confirmed an ongoing investigation into the incident, including the reasons behind Runkles’ presence and actions at State Farm Stadium. The memorial service for Charlie Kirk is proceeding as planned today.
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