Charlie Kirk statue unveiled in Times Square amid clashes between supporters and protesters

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: The unveiling of a bronze statue honoring Charlie Kirk in Times Square turned tense Thursday, September 10, as supporters and counter-protesters exchanged chants and insults and briefly clashed.

Videos from the scene captured heated exchanges and minor physical confrontations before police moved in to keep the opposing groups apart.

The 6-foot-5-inch bronze sculpture shows Kirk sitting with a microphone while wearing a “FREEDOM” T-shirt.

The ceremony was organized by Turning Point USA supporters and took place on the first anniversary of Kirk’s death on September 10, 2025.

Charlie Kirk statue unveiling sparks Times Square clashes

As spectators gathered around the statue, opposing chants could be heard across Times Square. Supporters arriving by cab were heckled, with some responding by saying, “N*zis are losers” and insisting they were not them.

Counter-protester Von Brown was also at the scene, wearing a sweatshirt referring to Kirk’s murder and shouting profanity-filled slogans about the late activist.

According to the material provided, Brown became involved in a heated verbal exchange with Kirk supporters, including Staten Island resident James Zeits. Zeits accused Brown of racism during the argument.

The confrontation later turned physical, with Brown appearing to shove Zeits. Other people nearby quickly stepped in and separated the two men before the situation escalated further.

James Zeits and Von Brown clash during protest

The tensions did not end with the first confrontation. Supporters later marched along Seventh Avenue carrying pro-Kirk signs and chanting, “I love Charlie Kirk” and “They can’t kill us all.”

Counter-protesters answered with chants condemning Kirk, while some bystanders also shouted at the group as it moved through Times Square.

Videos shared online captured several tense moments near Broadway, including people from opposing sides trading insults. Police officers repeatedly intervened to separate the groups.

No serious injuries were immediately reported, and authorities did not announce any arrests connected to the clashes.

Sergio Furnari unveils Charlie Kirk bronze statue

The statue itself became the focus of the ceremony. New York artist Sergio Furnari created the bronze sculpture and told reporters he spent about $100,000 on the project.

Supporters described the statue as a tribute to Kirk and his influence within the conservative movement. Kirk founded Turning Point USA in 2012 and became one of the most recognizable conservative youth leaders in the United States.

His murder last year drew widespread reactions across the political spectrum.

Right-wing activist Jake Lang was among those leading the memorial, addressing supporters through a megaphone as counter-protesters repeatedly interrupted.

As tensions grew, Lang eventually pulled supporters away from one confrontation and urged them to remain focused.