A statue of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk outside the Turning Point USA headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona, was vandalized Sunday morning, just days after its unveiling. Phoenix Police responded to the scene around 9 a.m. after reports of the defaced memorial.
The bronze statue, erected on the first anniversary of Kirk's death, was found covered in red spray paint. The paint appeared concentrated on the statue's neck, a potential mockery of the manner of Kirk's death. A frowny face was also drawn on its torso. Another nearby memorial, featuring Kirk next to a quote, was also defaced with a red 'X' over his face and paint covering the word 'Jesus'.
It is unclear if any suspects have been identified. The vandalism has drawn criticism from Kirk's supporters.
Kirk, a co-founder and leader of Turning Point USA and an ally of former President Donald Trump, was fatally shot on September 10, 2025, during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University. The 31-year-old was shot in the neck by a single rifle shot while hosting a debate in front of approximately 3,000 people. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
A manhunt led to the identification of Tyler Robinson, 22, as the alleged shooter. Robinson surrendered to authorities after his parents reportedly convinced him to turn himself in. He faces ten criminal counts, including aggravated murder, which is eligible for the death penalty.
In early September, a judge ruled that Robinson's trial would proceed, finding sufficient evidence against him, despite the defense's arguments to the contrary. Robinson's legal team entered not guilty pleas on all counts. His next court date is scheduled for October 23.
Prosecutors have argued that Robinson's motive stemmed from opposing views between himself and Kirk, particularly on same-sex marriage and gender transitioning. Evidence presented included a note from Robinson to his former roommate, Lance Twiggs, which read: "I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk, and I took it. I wish we could have lived in a world where this was not necessary."
The vandalism in Phoenix occurred shortly after another Charlie Kirk statue, created by artist Sergio Furnaru, was displayed in Times Square in New York City on the one-year anniversary of his death. The New York installation reportedly led to clashes between Kirk supporters and critics.