Suspect Raised Shotgun, Neutralized by Security Forces
Austin Tucker Martin, 21, was fatally shot early on February 22 after entering the secure area at Mar-a-Lago with a shotgun and a gas can. His family had previously posted a missing person alert on the evening of February 21. In 2023, his sister, Caitlin Renea Martin, also 21, died in a head-on collision.
According to Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, the suspect dropped the gas can when asked to stop but then raised the shotgun into a firing position. Secret Service and local police opened fire, neutralizing the threat. Secret Service representative Anthony Guglielmi stated that a shotgun case was found in the suspect's vehicle.
Family Lost Daughter in 2023 Accident
The family confirmed that Caitlin died in August 2023 after her car was involved in a head-on collision near her home in North Carolina. Her family described her as an animal lover who was beloved by many friends.
Suspect's Mother Posted Missing Person Alert Before Incident
The suspect's mother posted a missing person poster on social media on the evening of February 21, stating that her son might be driving a silver 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan. The vehicle was later found at the scene.
President Trump was not present at Mar-a-Lago at the time of the incident; he was in Washington, D.C. for an event on the evening of February 21. Authorities urged local residents to check their security cameras for any relevant footage.
The incident is currently under investigation to clarify the motive and events leading up to the suspect's approach to the secure area.
