Here are the facts.
Armed Man Shot After Breaching Security at President Trump’s Florida Residence
A serious security incident unfolded early Sunday morning at President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, after an armed man allegedly forced his way onto the property and was shot by law enforcement officers.
According to the U.S. Secret Service, the breach occurred around 1:30 a.m. when the suspect made an unauthorized entry through the north gate of the Mar-a-Lago resort while another vehicle was exiting.
Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw confirmed the individual was 21-year-old Austin Tucker Martin of North Carolina.
Suspect Reportedly Armed With Shotgun and Fuel Can
Authorities say the man was observed carrying what appeared to be a shotgun and a fuel can when he was confronted by Secret Service agents and a deputy from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.
Law enforcement officials ordered him to drop the items. Sheriff Bradshaw stated that the suspect placed the fuel can down but then raised the shotgun into what officers described as a firing position.
At that point, officers discharged their weapons and neutralized the threat.
Officials confirmed there was no further verbal exchange. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene.
No Secret Service personnel, sheriff’s deputies, or individuals under protection were injured.
President Trump Was Not at Mar-a-Lago During the Incident
President Trump was at the White House at the time of the security breach. While he frequently spends weekends at his Palm Beach residence, he was not present during the early morning incident.
Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi stated that investigators believe the suspect purchased the shotgun while traveling south. The weapon’s packaging was later discovered inside the suspect’s vehicle.
Missing Person Report Filed in North Carolina
In a related development, the Moore County Sheriff’s Office in North Carolina confirmed that a family member reported Martin missing around 1:38 a.m. Sunday.
He was entered into a national missing persons database shortly before federal authorities notified local officials that an active investigation was underway in Florida.
North Carolina officials stated they had no prior law enforcement history involving the 21-year-old and have turned all relevant case information over to federal authorities.
FBI Assisting in Ongoing Investigation
The FBI, U.S. Secret Service, and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office are jointly investigating the incident.
FBI Miami Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles confirmed that the bureau’s evidence response team is processing the scene and collecting forensic material. Residents in the surrounding area have been asked to review exterior security cameras for any unusual activity from Saturday night into early Sunday morning.
FBI Director Kash Patel stated that the bureau is dedicating all necessary resources to the investigation and is coordinating with federal and state partners.
Authorities are working to determine the suspect’s background, possible motive, and psychological profile.
Heightened Security Concerns After Prior Threats
This latest breach comes after President Trump faced two assassination attempts during the 2024 campaign — incidents that significantly heightened security concerns nationwide.
For many Americans, especially older voters who remember earlier eras of political violence, the event underscores the ongoing risks faced by national leaders in today’s charged political climate.
Law Enforcement Response Praised
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt praised the Secret Service for acting swiftly and decisively in what officials described as a rapidly evolving and dangerous situation.
Investigators continue to gather evidence and review the circumstances surrounding the use of force.
A Developing Story
This remains an active investigation. Additional details will be released as federal and local authorities provide updates.
For now, officials emphasize that security protocols functioned as designed — preventing what could have been a far more tragic outcome.
