An armed individual was shot and killed early Sunday after entering the secured perimeter of Mar-a-Lago, the Palm Beach, Florida resort owned by U.S. President Donald Trump, according to the United States Secret Service.
Authorities say the security breach occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. Sunday, while President Trump was in Washington, D.C., and not present at the resort.
Suspect Armed With Shotgun and Gas Can
Officials reported that the suspect drove through the property’s north gate as another vehicle was exiting. He was carrying a shotgun and a gasoline container, prompting an immediate confrontation with two Secret Service agents and a Palm Beach County sheriff’s deputy.
Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw stated that officers ordered the man to drop the items. While he complied by placing the gas can down, he allegedly raised the shotgun into a firing position, prompting officers to discharge their weapons and neutralize the threat.
Suspect Identified as Missing North Carolina Man
Investigators have identified the individual as 21-year-old Austin Tucker Martin of North Carolina. According to authorities, Martin had recently been reported missing by family members. Officials believe he purchased the shotgun while traveling south, and a firearm box was later recovered from his vehicle.
Motive Remains Unknown as Investigation Continues
Law enforcement agencies have not yet determined a motive for the intrusion. The incident comes amid heightened security concerns surrounding President Trump, who has faced previous threats, including assassination attempts during the 2024 presidential campaign.
Officials confirmed that the investigation remains active, with federal and local authorities working to determine the circumstances leading up to the security breach.