By: Paul Goldberg, Senior Correspondent | LGBT Politics News
LAS VEGAS — (February 22, 2026) — New details are emerging following a deadly security incident at former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, where an armed individual was shot and killed after breaching the protected perimeter early Sunday morning.
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According to an official statement released by the U.S. Secret Service, the incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. when a man later identified as 21-year-old Austin Tucker Martin entered the secured grounds near the north gate of the property.
Authorities state the individual appeared to be carrying a shotgun and a fuel can.
Secret Service agents, alongside a deputy from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO), confronted the suspect. Law enforcement officials say the man was ordered to drop the weapon. According to the sheriff’s office, the suspect instead pointed the firearm at officers, prompting agents to open fire.
The individual was pronounced deceased at the scene.
No Secret Service personnel or local deputies were injured during the confrontation. Officials confirmed that no Secret Service protectees were present at the property at the time of the breach. Former President Donald Trump was in Washington, D.C., Saturday evening.
Official Secret Service Statement
Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the U.S. Secret Service, confirmed:
“On February 22, around 1:30 a.m., a white male in his early 20s was shot by U.S. Secret Service agents and a deputy from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office following an unauthorized entry into the secure perimeter at Mar-a-Lago.”
He further stated that the incident remains under active investigation by the FBI, the Secret Service, and PBSO. In accordance with agency policy, the involved Secret Service agents have been placed on routine administrative leave pending review.
FBI Response
FBI Director Kash Patel posted on X that federal authorities are dedicating “all necessary resources” to the investigation and are working closely with the Secret Service and local law enforcement partners.
FBI is dedicating all necessary resources in the investigation of this morning’s incident at President Trump’s Mar-A-Lago – where an armed individual was shot and killed after unlawfully entering the perimeter. We will continue working closely with @SecretService as well our…
— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) February 22, 2026
How Investigators Believe the Breach Occurred
According to reporting from the Associated Press, later confirmed by multiple outlets, Martin had reportedly been missing for several days prior to the incident.
Investigators believe he may have traveled south before allegedly acquiring the shotgun. Authorities reportedly discovered packaging for the firearm inside his vehicle.
New details suggest the suspect may have gained access to the secure area by “piggybacking” behind another vehicle lawfully entering the property when the gate opened — a tactic sometimes used in perimeter breaches.
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the suspect’s background, potential motive, and full timeline of events.
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Ongoing Investigation
The FBI, U.S. Secret Service, and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office are jointly reviewing body camera footage, surveillance video, forensic evidence, and procedural response protocols.
Authorities have emphasized that the investigation remains active and that additional findings may be released as they are confirmed.
For continuing updates on federal investigations, homeland security developments, and national political coverage, stay with JRL CHARTS LGBT Politics — where verified reporting meets strategic insight.
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