Charlie Kirk Statue Vandalized, Smeared With Red Paint

An eight-foot bronze statue honoring Charlie Kirk was vandalized with red paint outside Turning Point USA’s headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona, according to the organization.

The damage was discovered Sunday morning after the statue was apparently targeted overnight. Phoenix police said officers responded to the area near 48th Street and Beverly Road around 8:09 a.m.

Police secured the scene and opened an investigation. Authorities had not publicly identified any suspects.

The statue, created by sculptor Quintin McCann, had only recently been installed. It was unveiled on September 10 during a gathering that included prayer.

The memorial marked one year since Kirk, the co-founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot at age 31 while appearing at a Turning Point event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025.

The sculpture depicts Kirk tossing baseball caps, a recognizable gesture from his appearances on college campuses. It also features details including a “FREEDOM” shirt, cross necklace, wedding ring and Turning Point USA hat.

The statue’s current placement outside the organization’s headquarters is temporary while plans for a permanent location are considered. Flowers, American flags and other tributes had been placed around the memorial.

According to the report, red paint was sprayed across portions of the statue, including Kirk’s face, neck, hand and torso. A frowning or upside-down smiley face was also painted on the memorial.

A nearby sign featuring Kirk’s photograph was vandalized as well. A red X was painted over his face, while references to Jesus and a cross on the memorial were also crossed out.

Turning Point USA said the organization plans to repair the damage and is cooperating with authorities while reviewing surveillance footage.

“We will restore the statue and replace the signs,” Turning Point USA said, adding that it was working with law enforcement to identify whoever was responsible.

The organization condemned the vandalism as “diabolical” and specifically criticized the decision to cross out the name of Jesus on the nearby memorial.

Tyler Bowyer, chief operating officer of Turning Point Action, said the organization was prepared to begin cleaning the statue after police finished processing the scene.

Authorities have not announced an arrest, and the investigation remains underway.