A newly unveiled statue of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Turning Point USA's (TPUSA) Phoenix headquarters was vandalized with red paint early Sunday, according to police and the organization. The incident occurred just three days after the memorial was installed to commemorate the one-year anniversary of Kirk's assassination.
The eight-foot statue was smeared with red paint across its face and neck, and a crude frowning face was drawn on its chest. A sign at the base of the statue, which read "Jesus defeated death so you can live," was also defaced. The word "Jesus" and a cross image were crossed out, and the word "Satan" was apparently scrawled on the display.
Phoenix police confirmed they are investigating the incident, which was reported around 8:09 a.m. Sunday. As of Sunday afternoon, no arrests or suspect descriptions had been announced.
"This morning we woke up to radical criminals vandalizing our headquarters," wrote Turning Point USA Chief Operating Officer Tyler Bowyer on social media. "Crossing over Charlie’s face, scratching out Jesus and the Cross and spraying red paint on his neck."
TPUSA stated that it plans to restore the statue and replace the damaged signs while cooperating with law enforcement. The organization characterized the vandalism as "diabolical" and an "intentional decision" to target religious elements.
The statue, which depicts Kirk wearing a "Freedom" T-shirt and cross necklace, was commissioned by TPUSA and created by artist Quintin McCann. It was unveiled on Thursday to mark one year since Kirk was killed while speaking at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025.
Charlie Kirk, the founder and CEO of Turning Point USA, was 31 at the time of his death. Tyler Robinson, 23, has pleaded not guilty to charges including aggravated murder in Kirk's death, and prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.
Following the vandalism, several conservative figures condemned the act. U.S. Representatives Abe Hamadeh and Andy Biggs, both of Arizona, and commentator Benny Johnson criticized the defacement. TPUSA contributor Alex Clark urged conservative voters to mobilize, while Mikey McCoy, TPUSA Chief of Staff, called for prayer for the vandals.
Bowyer also criticized Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, referencing her veto of legislation that would have named a highway in Kirk's honor. Hobbs had previously stated that she condemned political violence but believed highway-naming decisions should remain nonpartisan.
Anyone with information regarding the vandalism is encouraged to contact Phoenix police or Silent Witness.