Man Arrested for Vandalizing Charlie Kirk Memorial in Phoenix

A 19-year-old man was arrested Sunday after allegedly vandalizing the growing memorial for conservative activist Charlie Kirk outside Turning Point USA’s headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona.

According to Fox News, cameras captured the suspect walking through the tribute site, knocking over flowers, American flags, and glass vases left by mourners. The footage shows a man in a blue polo shirt intervening, physically removing the suspect from the memorial and restraining him on the ground until police arrived.

Phoenix police later identified the alleged vandal as Ryder Corral. Notably, Corral was wearing a black shirt featuring an American flag and eagle—similar to the shirt reportedly worn by Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old suspect accused of assassinating Kirk during a public event at Utah Valley University last Wednesday.

Corral was taken into custody by local officers and transported to Maricopa County Jail. He now faces charges of criminal damage and disorderly conduct, according to a statement from Phoenix Police Sgt. Philip Krynsky.

The incident adds further tension to an already emotionally charged atmosphere following Kirk’s high-profile assassination, which has drawn national attention and ignited political debate. Mourners have continued to visit the site to pay tribute, and the memorial has grown steadily since Kirk’s death. Officials have not released any statement about Corral’s motive, and the investigation remains ongoing.