Armed Man Incident at Charlie Kirk Arizona Memorial at State Farm Stadium Spurs Calls for Stronger VIP Security Measures

Glendale, AZ — September 2025

An alarming security breach ahead of Charlie Kirk’s memorial service has intensified discussions around how events with high-value individuals (HVIs) can better safeguard attendees and dignitaries. According to multiple reports, Joshua Runkles, a 42-year-old man, was arrested at State Farm Stadium after allegedly carrying a gun and knife and pretending to be a law enforcement officer with expired credentials. ABC News+3New York Post+3The Guardian+3

Though Turning Point USA stated Runkles was performing advance security for a “known guest”—the action was not properly coordinated with the event’s security team or the U.S. Secret Service. New York Post+1 This occurred before the stadium perimeter was sealed and access was controlled. New York Post+1


Security Lapses Exposed

  • Impersonation of law enforcement with invalid credentials

  • Armed person allowed inside before final perimeter control

  • Lack of coordination among private security, event organizers, and federal agents

  • Insufficient vetting of personnel claiming to serve protective roles

Axios Security Group: Actionable Recommendations

To prevent similar incidents, Axios Security Group advises the following enhanced security protocols for high-profile events:

  1. Credentials Verification Protocols
    Every person claiming law enforcement or security authority must be vetted well in advance. Ensure valid credentials and maintain a registry of permitted security IDs.

  2. Strict Perimeter & Access Control
    Seal off venues early. Use clearly defined checkpoints. Require credential badge checks, bag scans, and metal detectors.

  3. Advance Security Team Integration
    All private security and advance teams must coordinate with lead organizers and federal authorities (e.g. Secret Service) before arrival.

  4. Overwatch & Surveillance Layers
    Deploy visual overwatch—sniper teams where lawful, drone surveillance, and cameras covering all ingress/egress points.

  5. Executive Protection Presence
    Use PPOs who offer close protection, counter-surveillance, and rapid response. Have visible and covert teams.

  6. Behavioral & Intelligence Monitoring (OSINT)
    Monitor social media, event early-warnings, and threat actor chatter. Look for impersonation schemes or suspicious claims.

  7. Crisis & Incident Response Plan
    Ensure there is a clearly defined command structure, communication plan, and medical extraction strategy.

Conclusion

The incident involving Joshua Runkles serves as a stark reminder that intent and optics matter just as much as policy. Public events with large crowds and VIPs are magnets for both earnest actors and those seeking to exploit weak controls.

Axios Security Group is committed to helping event organizers, political groups, and executive figures build trusted, proactive, and layered security postures.

“When someone can impersonate an officer and bring weapons into a stadium because coordination and verification are lax, that’s not a failure of policy—it’s a failure of resolve,” said Jereme Dozier, CEO, Axios Security Group.

📞 Contact: 800-485-3983
🌐 www.axiossecuritygroup.com
🛡 Ever Vigilant. Always Ready.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Axios Security Group Urges Nationwide Security Reevaluation Following Manhattan NFL Headquarters Shooting

Image
"Preparedness Saves Lives" – CEO Jereme Dozier Calls for Renewed Focus on Active Shooter Response, Mental Health Awareness, and Corporate Security Protocols New York, NY — In the aftermath of the tragic July 28, 2025, shooting in Midtown Manhattan—which targeted the NFL headquarters and left four individuals dead, including a brave off-duty NYPD officer working security—Axios Security Group is urging both public and private sectors to take immediate action to reassess and fortify their security posture. Jereme Dozier, CEO of Axios Security Group and a veteran of the elite 75th Ranger Regiment, emphasized that this attack exposes serious vulnerabilities and underscores the urgent need for investment in proper preparedness, response training, and mental health awareness. “What happened in Manhattan was not just a security breach—it was a wake-up call,” said Dozier. “This was a preventable tragedy, and every business leader in America should now be asking: Are we truly read...
Read more

Why Jeffrey Epstein Is Still Critically Important to Security, Intelligence, and Executive Protection.

Image
The case of Jeffrey Epstein remains one of the most consequential and disturbing intersections of wealth, influence, and systemic failure in modern history. Beyond its high-profile nature and the tragic exploitation of countless victims, the Epstein saga presents an unprecedented opportunity to evaluate critical vulnerabilities across security, intelligence, executive protection (EP), and institutional governance. From compromised surveillance networks and negligent federal custody oversight to the potential for blackmail operations and intelligence exploitation, Epstein's actions exposed glaring weaknesses in both public and private security frameworks. His ability to move undetected in elite circles for decades, despite a known criminal record, serves as a warning for every agency, organization, and protective team responsible for safeguarding high-value individuals and sensitive environments. This article, developed in partnership with Axios Security Group, dissects the Epstein ...
Read more

Takeaway on Infidelity, Corporate Scandals, and Private Investigations: Lessons from the Andy Byron ‘Kiss Cam’ Controversy

Image
Infidelity, Corporate Scandals, and Private Investigations: Lessons from the Andy Byron ‘Kiss Cam’ Controversy When Andy Byron, CEO of the billion-dollar AI firm Astronomer , appeared on the kiss cam at a Coldplay concert in Boston, few could predict the fallout. The moment, showing Byron appearing to cuddle up with Chief People Officer Kristin Cabot , quickly went viral, and within days, he had resigned . But beyond the headlines lies a deeper set of lessons for the world of private investigations, executive protection, and corporate integrity . 💔 1. Public Behavior Has Private Consequences What happened at Gillette Stadium serves as a case study in how public spaces are no longer private . Surveillance and social media amplify even the smallest missteps, especially when they involve powerful figures. “We’re living in an age where every moment is recorded,” says Jereme Dozier , CEO of Axios Investigations Firm . “The kiss cam incident isn’t just a PR gaffe it’s a red flag for...
Read more