Armed Man Shot and Killed After Breaching Security Perimeter at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Estate

An armed man was shot and killed early Sunday after unlawfully entering the secure perimeter surrounding President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, according to federal and local authorities.

The incident happened around 1:30 a.m. when officials say a man entered through the north gate of the property as an employee was exiting. He reportedly made it about 20 to 30 yards onto the grounds before being confronted by U.S. Secret Service agents and a Palm Beach County sheriff’s deputy.

Authorities say the man appeared to be carrying a shotgun and a fuel can. After officers ordered him to drop the items, he reportedly dropped the gas can but raised the shotgun into a firing position. Law enforcement then opened fire. The man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials say the individual was a white man in his early 20s from North Carolina who had been reported missing by his mother the day before. His identity has not yet been released pending family notification.

No law enforcement officers were injured. Officials confirmed the responding officers were wearing body cameras.

The FBI is leading the investigation, working to determine the man’s background and possible motive. Secret Service agents involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure following a use-of-force incident.

President Trump and the first lady were in Washington, D.C., at the time and were not at the Florida property.

Authorities are asking residents in the surrounding area to review security camera footage and contact investigators if they notice anything suspicious.

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