Turning Point USA has scheduled a public memorial for conservative activist Charlie Kirk at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, on Sunday, Sept. 21, and former President Donald Trump has said he will attend.
The organization said supporters would be able to pay their respects inside the Arizona Cardinals' home stadium, which has a fixed seating capacity of 63,400 and can be expanded for larger events. The announcement follows Kirk's death earlier this week after he was shot while speaking at a university event in Utah.
Kirk, 31, was shot once in the neck on Wednesday while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University in Orem. He was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. Turning Point USA invited supporters to a ceremony "celebrating the remarkable life and enduring legacy" of the founder of the conservative student movement.
Kirk's wife, Erika, shared images on social media showing her weeping beside his casket and delivered a public address from Kirk's studio, saying she would continue his political work. "Charlie, I promise I will never let your legacy die, baby," she said. "I promise I'll make Turning Point USA the biggest thing that this nation has ever seen." The couple had two children.
Authorities arrested a 22-year-old suspect, identified as Tyler Robinson, after a roughly 33-hour manhunt. Utah officials said Robinson was turned over to police in southern Utah by his father and a minister. He has been booked on suspicion of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily harm and obstruction of justice.
Officials said investigators found inscriptions on bullets linked to the shooting that referenced internet culture and anti-fascist sentiments. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said investigators were told Robinson had discussed Kirk and his viewpoints with family members, and quoted a family member saying Robinson described Kirk as "full of hate and spreading hate."
Robinson, who lives in Washington, Utah, was described by local officials as having become more political in recent years. Local reporting and public records show he lived in a six-bedroom home valued at roughly $600,000 and had social media posts with family and friends, including posts celebrating his college acceptance.
FBI Director Kash Patel called the capture of the suspect "historic," praising the bureau's work in bringing the manhunt to an end. At the same time, some observers and media outlets have raised questions about the pace of investigative leads and Patel's leadership, according to reports.
President Trump, who addressed the nation after news of Kirk's death, said he would attend the funeral and urged that the suspect receive the death penalty. He described Kirk as "the finest person." Prosecutors will determine formal charges and potential federal involvement as the Utah investigation proceeds.
Law enforcement officials have released limited details about a motive and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities have said they will provide further updates as they are able, and local officials have urged the public to allow investigators to complete interviews and forensic work.
Turning Point USA's announcement of the large memorial at State Farm Stadium reflects Kirk's prominence within conservative political circles. The organization grew into a national network of student activists and has been a high-profile presence on college campuses and in conservative media.
The memorial is expected to draw national attention and supporters from across the country. Funeral logistics, including entry procedures and security measures at the stadium, will be handled by local authorities and the organization in coming days.