Trump Resort Security Breach Ends in Fatal Shooting After Armed Man Enters Mar-a-Lago Grounds

Police shot and killed an armed man who drove inside the protected perimeter of former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, early Sunday morning.

The U.S. Secret Service reported the incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. when a car left the property. Officials said the suspect broke inside the estate’s north gate using that moment. He entered the restricted area with a shotgun and gas can.

Police identified the man as 21-year-old North Carolina resident Austin Tucker Martin. His family reported him missing some days ago, according to investigators. He likely got the shotgun on his way south to Florida, according to police.

He was confronted shortly after entering the property. Two Secret Service agents and a sheriff’s deputy promptly approached the suspect, according to Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw. He was asked to drop his belongings by officers. He apparently put the gas can down but raised the shotgun to shoot. Authorities said the agents and deputy fired to stop an immediate threat.

Anthony Guglielmi, Secret Service spokesperson, said the suspect’s car contained a shotgun box. The suspect’s intentions are still being investigated by officials.

The FBI, Secret Service, and local police are investigating together. Residents near Mar-a-Lago have been encouraged to study security camera footage that may help authorities explain the shooting. FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau will use all resources to investigate.

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were in the White House during the breach. The former president spends weekends at his Palm Beach home, which is under federal security due to threats. Trump experienced two assassination attempts during the 2024 campaign, raising security worries for his properties and public appearances.

When Trump visits, Mar-a-Lago is strongly secured. The Secret Service monitors the estate’s security perimeter when he’s away. Police stressed that the response was rapid and followed rules to eliminate threats to federally protected individuals and facilities.

Authorities report no police or bystander injuries. Officer-involved shooting investigations typically evaluate body camera footage, surveillance records, and forensic evidence.

Officials said the situation was addressed quickly for public safety. Once validated, federal authorities may provide more details as the investigation proceeds.

Sources

U.S. Secret Service
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office