A memorial service for Charlie Kirk will take place at a US stadium today

Thousands of people have gathered ahead of a public memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Donald Trump is expected to lead tributes to the right-wing podcaster, who was fatally shot at a debate event in Utah, at the service in Arizona later today. Many prominent members of Trump's administration, including Vice President JD Vance, are expected to attend the memorial at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, where Kirk's group Turning Point USA is based.

Security at the memorial is expected to be tight with a huge US Secret Service presence on site. A gunman posing as a police officer was arrested on Friday night at the stadium but it was later revealed he was conducting a security sweep ahead of the service.

12:57Ryan FaheyTrue role of man arrested ahead of Kirk service

A man accused of being armed at the stadium where Charlie Kirk's funeral is being held did not pose a threat, according to the Conservative activist's NGO.

Turning Point USA (TPUSA) confirmed Joshua Runkles, who was arrested at State Farm Stadium on Friday for allegedly posing as a police officer, was merely conducting a security sweep for a "known guest."

Runkles was carrying a gun and a knife at the Arizona memorial.

"We do not believe this person was attempting anything nefarious, however the advance was not done in proper coordination with the TPUSA security team or US Secret Service," TPUSA spokesman Andrew Kolvet said on X Saturday.

"Also important to note that this was before the site had been fully sealed and locked down. Every precaution is being taken to ensure everyone's safety."

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12:35Elizabeta RanxburgajThousands to gather for Kirk memorial

A public service for slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk will be held at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, later today.

The stadium has a capacity of 63,000 people and the nearby Desert Diamond Arena, with a capacity of 19,000, will serve as a venue for overflow.

Kirk was fatally shot in the neck while at a debate event at Utah Valley University last week.

Donald Trump attends Charlie Kirk memorial service - updates