Security Elevated as Americans Gather for Charlie Kirk Memorial

Tue Oct 21 2025 19:42:04 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Amid heightened tensions and security measures, thousands gather in Glendale, Arizona, to honor the life of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, following his tragic death amidst rising concerns about political violence.

A memorial event for Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old conservative activist fatally shot at a speaking engagement two weeks ago, is set to take place at State Farm Stadium in Arizona. With expectations of over 100,000 attendees, heightened security protocols will be implemented, reminiscent of TSA screenings. High-profile speakers including Donald Trump and Kirk's widow, Erika, are scheduled to address the crowd, amidst an atmosphere of polarized sentiments regarding Kirk's legacy and the implications of his death.

President Donald Trump and other prominent American political figures are heading to Arizona to speak at a memorial for Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old conservative activist who was killed two weeks ago.

The event, organised by Turning Point USA (TPUSA), is on Sunday at State Farm Stadium in Glendale and could be attended by more than 100,000 people.

Heightened security is expected, including 'TSA-level screening', according to TPUSA.

Kirk, who co-founded Turning Point USA when he was 18, was shot at a speaking event on a Utah university campus on 10 September, reigniting concerns about political violence in the US.

A polarising figure, differing perspectives about his legacy and possible motives for the shooting have exacerbated deep divisions in the US.

In addition to Trump, those expected to speak at the service include Kirk's widow, Erika, who took over his role as TPUSA CEO; Vice President JD Vance; Donald Trump Jr; prominent commentator Tucker Carlson; and White House advisor Stephen Miller.

Public shootings in the US are typically met with calls from political leaders for calm, prayer, and unity.

However, the Trump administration has reportedly sought to blame the 'radical left', prompting accusations of government overreach and claims that Kirk's death is being used as a pretext to intrude on civil liberties.

Doors open at 08:00 local time (16:00 BST), with the official program due to start at 11:00 (19:00 BST). The stadium can hold just over 63,000 people, with a nearby stadium allocated as an overflow area, as entry is on a 'first come, first served' basis.

The memorial will also be live-streamed on Charlie Kirk's Rumble account. Security measures for the event are being described as comparable to those for high-profile events like the Super Bowl.

Heightened anxiety follows the killing of Kirk, and while much remains unclear about the suspected shooter's motives, indications of a 'leftist ideology' have been reported.