Armed Man Shot and Killed After Entering Mar-a-Lago Perimeter

Secret Service says the intruder had a gas can and shotgun

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An armed man drove into the secure perimeter of Mar-a-Lago, President Donald Trump's resort in Palm Beach, Florida, before being shot and killed early Sunday morning, according to a spokesman for the U.S. Secret Service. The man had a gas can and a shotgun, authorities said. Investigators identified him as 21-year-old Austin Tucker Martin of North Carolina, and authorities said his family had recently reported him missing.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing security concerns and threats faced by former President Trump, who has survived multiple assassination attempts during his political career. The breach at Mar-a-Lago raises questions about the effectiveness of security measures at the former president's private residence.

The details

The man entered the north gate of the Mar-a-Lago property as another vehicle was exiting and was confronted by two Secret Service agents and a Palm Beach County sheriff's deputy. He was ordered to drop the gas can and shotgun, but instead raised the weapon to a shooting position, prompting the agents and deputy to open fire and neutralize the threat.

  • The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 23, 2026.

The players

Austin Tucker Martin

A 21-year-old man from North Carolina who was reported missing by his family prior to the incident.

U.S. Secret Service

The federal law enforcement agency responsible for protecting the president and other high-ranking officials.

Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that assisted the Secret Service in responding to the incident.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He was ordered to drop those two pieces of equipment that he had with him. At which time he put down the gas can, raised the shotgun to a shooting position.”

— Ric Bradshaw, Palm Beach County Sheriff (wbal.com)

“He's a good kid. I wouldn't believe he would do something like this. It's mind-blowing.”

— Braeden Fields, Cousin of Austin Tucker Martin (wbal.com)

What’s next

Investigators are working to compile a psychological profile of Austin Tucker Martin and determine a motive for the incident. The FBI has encouraged residents near Mar-a-Lago to check any security camera footage that could aid the investigation.

The takeaway

This breach at Mar-a-Lago underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by former President Trump and the need for robust protective measures at his private residences. The incident also highlights the broader issue of politically motivated violence in the United States, which has seen a rise in recent years.