Man Killed at Mar-a-Lago Worked at Renowned Golf Course

Austin Tucker Martin, 21, was a golf course illustrator who had a history of mental health issues.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 21-year-old man from North Carolina named Austin Tucker Martin was shot and killed by law enforcement after allegedly breaching the secure perimeter at Mar-a-Lago, former President Donald Trump's resort in Florida. Martin worked as an illustrator at Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club, a prestigious golf course that has hosted several U.S. Women's Open championships.

Why it matters

The incident at Mar-a-Lago has raised concerns about security at the former president's properties, as well as the mental health challenges faced by some individuals. Martin's background as a golf course illustrator also highlights the talent and creativity found in the golf industry.

The details

According to authorities, Martin was carrying a shotgun and a fuel can when he approached the north gate of Mar-a-Lago around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday. He was ordered to drop the items, but instead raised the shotgun, prompting a deputy and two Secret Service agents to open fire and kill him. Martin was reported missing in the days leading up to the incident and had a history of mental health issues.

  • The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 23, 2026.
  • Martin was reported missing in the days leading up to the incident.

The players

Austin Tucker Martin

A 21-year-old man from North Carolina who worked as an illustrator at Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club and was shot and killed by law enforcement after allegedly breaching the secure perimeter at Mar-a-Lago.

Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club

A prestigious golf course in Southern Pines, North Carolina that has hosted several U.S. Women's Open championships and is known for its Donald Ross-designed layout.

U.S. Secret Service

The federal agency responsible for protecting the president and other high-ranking officials, who were involved in the shooting incident at Mar-a-Lago.

Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident at Mar-a-Lago and identified Austin Tucker Martin as the deceased individual.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“They confronted a White male that was carrying a gas can and a shotgun. 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. At that point in time, the deputy and the two Secret Service agents fired their weapons and neutralized the threat.”

— Ric Bradshaw, Palm Beach County Sheriff (USA TODAY)

What’s next

Authorities are investigating the motive behind Martin's actions and whether he had any connections to extremist groups or a history of mental health issues that may have contributed to the incident.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges of securing high-profile properties and the need for greater awareness and support for individuals struggling with mental health challenges. It also showcases the talent and creativity found within the golf industry, as exemplified by Martin's work as a golf course illustrator.